National Resources Limited (NRL) announced the discovery of gold and copper deposits in the Chagai district in Balutchistan.
The announcement was made by the president of NRL and CEO of Lucky Cement, Muhammad Ali Tabba, during Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025, in the presence of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the ASIM Murnir army chief.
The NRL is a 100%Pakistani company, a subsidiary of Fatima Engrtilizer, Liberty Mills and Lucky Cement. He received his exploration license in October 2023.
According to Tabba, exploration in the 500 km2 license area has led to the identification of 16 potential mineral sites in the last 18 months. Advanced drilling started on the location of Tang Kore.
Until now, the NRL has completed 13 diamond drilling holes covering 3,517 meters, all showing signs of mineralization. The results of the first six drilling holes have confirmed solid mineral areas near the surface.
The initial samples revealed a 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%.
The LNR plans to start the advanced borehole in Tang Kore in May 2025, followed by a technical report or 43-101 by the end of the year. This will be followed by 3 to 4 years of additional exploration and feasibility studies.
In addition to the exploration in copper gold, NRL obtained a lead-zinc license adjacent to an existing mine with a bancable feasibility study completed. The company also conducts a study on the metal value chain to assess downstream treatment opportunities.
NRL underlined its commitment to the local community, by supporting drinking water, education, health care and jobs. The company said that more than 90% of its workforce were employed locally.
NRL works with the Balutchistan government and the Special Facilitation Investment Council (SIFC) to obtain two additional exploration licenses, supported by a 100 million dollars fund. He also signed a memorandum of understanding with the OGDC to work on the newly rented areas.
