Pakistan’s mineral exploration sector has reported a significant development after National Resources Limited (NRL) announced multiple copper and gold discoveries in Balochistan’s Chagai district. The findings could strengthen the country’s mineral potential and attract further attention to its largely unexplored natural resources.
The Pakistani-owned mineral exploration company has identified copper and gold mineralization across at least eight porphyry discoveries in the region. The findings follow an extensive exploration campaign involving nearly 25,000 metres of drilling.
The discoveries are located in Darigwan, covering an area of approximately 5.6 square kilometres. The site is situated near the company’s previously reported copper and gold discovery at Tang Kaur.
NRL Chairman Muhammad Ali Tabba shared details of the latest findings during the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026, highlighting the progress made through the company’s exploration activities.
NRL Identifies Eight Copper and Gold Discoveries
The latest exploration results represent an important step in understanding the mineral potential of Balochistan’s Chagai district.
According to the information shared by the company, drilling activities have identified copper and gold mineralization across at least eight porphyry discoveries.
Porphyry deposits are geological formations that can contain significant concentrations of copper, gold and other valuable minerals. They are considered important targets for large-scale mining operations because of their potential economic value.
NRL’s exploration programme involved approximately 25,000 metres of drilling, allowing the company to investigate mineral-bearing formations beneath the surface.
The discoveries spread across 5.6 square kilometres in Darigwan, providing a broader area for further geological assessment and exploration.
However, additional technical studies and resource evaluations will be important in determining the commercial potential of these discoveries.
Darigwan Discoveries Add to Pakistan’s Mineral Potential
The Darigwan findings are particularly significant because they are located close to NRL’s earlier copper and gold discovery at Tang Kaur.
The latest results add to growing interest in the mineral-rich Chagai region, which is already recognised for its geological potential.
Balochistan has substantial mineral resources, including copper, gold and other industrial minerals. The region’s geological formations have attracted exploration companies seeking opportunities in the mining sector.
The discovery of multiple mineralized zones could encourage further investment in geological surveys, drilling programmes and mining-related infrastructure.
For Pakistan, developing these resources could create opportunities for industrial growth, employment and increased economic activity, provided that commercially viable deposits are established.
Why Copper and Gold Discoveries Matter for Pakistan
Copper and gold are important commodities in international markets. Copper plays a major role in electricity networks, renewable energy systems, electric vehicles and industrial manufacturing.
Gold, meanwhile, is widely used in jewellery, investment markets and several industrial applications.
As global demand for critical minerals continues to grow, countries with significant mineral resources are attracting greater attention from international investors.
Pakistan’s latest discoveries could contribute to efforts to develop its mining industry and diversify its economic activities beyond traditional sectors.
However, mineral discoveries do not automatically translate into operational mines. Further exploration, feasibility studies, investment decisions, environmental assessments and infrastructure development are generally required before commercial production can begin.
Chagai District Remains Important for Mining Exploration
The latest findings place additional focus on Chagai district, where companies are continuing to investigate the region’s mineral resources.
The area is also home to the major Reko Diq copper and gold project, one of Pakistan’s most prominent mining developments.
NRL’s discoveries at Darigwan and its earlier findings at Tang Kaur highlight the wider exploration opportunities in the region.
As technical assessments continue, further information about the quality, depth and potential size of the mineral deposits will help determine their future economic significance.
The discoveries could become an important part of Pakistan’s long-term mineral development efforts, particularly if subsequent evaluations confirm commercially recoverable copper and gold resources.
