Pakistan Set to Boost Copper Exports After Landmark US Tariff Deal
Pakistan is gearing up for a major leap in its mining and minerals sector following a breakthrough tariff agreement with the United States, which is expected to bring in foreign investment and open doors for refined copper exports.
The announcement came on Sunday, with Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan calling the development a “game-changer” for Pakistan’s underused mineral resources.
According to Khan, during talks with US officials on reciprocal tariffs, the American side showed strong interest in investing in Pakistan’s mining sector, especially copper. The US has now removed its heavy 50% tariff on refined copper imports, making it far more profitable for Pakistan to export value-added copper products to the American market.
Pakistan ranks fifth in the world for copper reserves, yet most of its copper is exported in raw form, mainly to China. This means the country misses out on lucrative markets in the US, Europe, and the Middle East. Copper is in high demand globally, particularly for use in renewable energy systems and electric vehicles.
The government plans to change this by promoting refined copper, copper bars, rods, and alloys instead of raw ore exports. The Geological Survey of Pakistan has been tasked with mapping untapped reserves, while steps are being taken to improve mining infrastructure, such as building access roads and ensuring dedicated power supplies.
Kamal stressed that modern mining technologies and foreign investment could help Pakistan unlock the full potential of its mineral wealth, boost exports, and reduce its trade deficit.
The US tariff cut is not limited to copper. Overall tariffs on Pakistani goods have dropped from 29% to 19%—the lowest among regional competitors—offering a big advantage for sectors like textiles in the US market.
“This is not just about economic gains,” Khan said. “It’s about making Pakistan a trusted supplier in the global minerals market while supporting global sustainability goals.”
With rising global demand for copper, Pakistan now has a golden opportunity to transform its mineral resources into a powerful engine for economic growth.
