Reko Diq Copper-Gold Project Faces Potential Two-Year Delay to 2030

ISLAMABAD: The Reko Diq copper-gold project in Balochistan may experience a significant delay, with production now potentially pushed back to 2030 due to ongoing security concerns in the region and escalating tensions in the Middle East, according to government sources and industry insiders.

Investors have reportedly adjusted their expectations from the original 2028 timeline, influenced by the current war in neighboring Iran and persistent security challenges within Balochistan. Canadian mining giant Barrick Mining Corporation, which is overseeing the project, is anticipated to resume full-scale development by mid-2027 following an internal review of the project. While no official statement has been released by the company, local officials remain optimistic about the future of this multibillion-dollar venture.

The operational slowdown has not led to significant job losses, as project management has retained all 700 permanent employees and approximately 2,000 contractual workers at the site, although some third-party service contracts have been allowed to lapse. This retention indicates a commitment to the project despite the current challenges.

As the situation develops, stakeholders are keenly awaiting further announcements from Barrick and government officials regarding the project’s timeline and security measures. The outcome will have substantial implications for investment in the region and the local economy, which is heavily reliant on the success of the Reko Diq project.