Gold and copper reserves found in Chagai, Balochistan
National Resources Limited (NRL) has announced the discovery of gold and copper deposits in the Chagai district of Balochistan.
The announcement was made by NRL Chairman and Lucky Cement CEO Muhammad Ali Tabba during the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025, in the presence of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief General Asim Munir.
NRL is a 100% privately-owned Pakistani company, a subsidiary of Fatima Fertilizer, Liberty Mills, and Lucky Cement. It received its exploration licence in October 2023.
According to Tabba, exploration across the 500 sq km licence area led to the identification of 16 potential mineral sites over the last 18 months. Advanced drilling has begun at the Tang Kore location.
So far, NRL has completed 13 diamond drill holes covering 3,517 metres, all showing signs of mineralisation. Results from the first six drill holes confirmed strong mineral zones near the surface.
Initial samples revealed copper content between 0.23% and 0.48%, gold ranging from 0.09 to 0.14 grams per tonne, and silver between 1.3 and 6.21 grams per tonne—equivalent to combined copper values of 0.28% to 0.56%.
NRL plans to begin advanced drilling in Tang Kore in May 2025, followed by an NI 43-101 technical report by year-end. This will be followed by 3–4 years of further exploration and feasibility studies.
In addition to copper-gold exploration, NRL has secured a lead-zinc licence adjacent to an existing mine with a completed bankable feasibility study. The company is also conducting a metal value chain study to assess downstream processing opportunities.
NRL emphasised its commitment to the local community, supporting clean water, education, healthcare, and jobs. The company said more than 90% of its workforce is locally employed.
NRL is working with the Balochistan government and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) to secure two additional exploration licences, backed by a $100 million fund. It has also signed a memorandum of understanding with OGDC for work on newly leased areas.
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