Lahore, April 12, 2025 – Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb has highlighted copper as a vital resource that could unlock a new era of economic dividends for Pakistan.
Speaking at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Aurangzeb emphasized that copper, with its growing global demand, can become a powerful export driver for Pakistan, similar to how nickel transformed Singapore’s export landscape with a $22 billion annual share.
Aurangzeb underlined that the mineral and Information Technology (IT) sectors are pivotal to reshaping Pakistan’s economy. He reiterated that the government is committed to eliminating barriers to investment and maximizing the value of indigenous resources like copper to spur sustainable economic growth. “With global interest rising in Pakistan’s copper and mineral reserves, now is the time to act decisively,” said Aurangzeb.
The Finance Minister noted that under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, structural reforms are being implemented to ensure that resources like copper are fully leveraged. He pointed out that Pakistan’s vast untapped copper deposits can generate export revenues, support industrial growth, and attract foreign direct investment if supported by the right policies.
Aurangzeb assured the business community that their concerns are being heard. He stressed that reducing financing costs, rationalizing power tariffs, and reforming taxation will lead to improved industrial productivity. He acknowledged the need for a more inclusive tax system and promised relief for the salaried class, stating that the goal is to increase the tax-to-GDP ratio to 13%.
While addressing investors’ concerns, Aurangzeb revealed that policy clarity has already enabled smoother profit repatriation for foreign investors, boosting their confidence—particularly in sectors like copper mining and processing.
LCCI President Mian Abuzar Shad, praising the government’s efforts, echoed the Finance Minister’s optimism, particularly about copper becoming a long-term revenue stream. “With copper at the center of future trade and industrial strategy, Pakistan has a golden opportunity to diversify exports and strengthen its economic base,” he said.
Aurangzeb concluded by reaffirming the government’s intention to keep consulting with the private sector, ensuring that Pakistan’s copper resources translate into a consistent and sustainable economic dividend for the country.