Pakistan’s mineral sector has received a major boost after Pak Salt Corporation entered into a long-term cooperation agreement with the China National Salt Industry Group for the development of the country’s rock salt industry.

The agreement was completed with the support of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) and the Ministry of Energy’s Petroleum Division, officials said.

Under the partnership, both sides will work on improving mining operations, processing facilities, and international distribution channels for Pakistani rock salt. The cooperation also includes technology transfer, modern extraction methods, and value-added production aimed at increasing exports to international markets.

Officials said the agreement brings together Pakistani, Chinese, and North American stakeholders under a single platform to strengthen industrial cooperation and attract further investment into the mineral sector.

Shen Xiaojun, Chairman of the China National Salt Industry Group, said the agreement reflects the strong relationship between Pakistan and China and creates new opportunities for cooperation in the salt industry.

Ahmad Nadeem Khan, Chairman of Pakistan Salt Company, said the partnership would help Pakistan develop its salt reserves using advanced technology and improve the quality of local production.

Muhammad Mubarak Khan, CEO of Miracle Salt Development Corporation, said the agreement was made possible through the support of the SIFC and would help improve investor confidence in Pakistan’s industrial sector.

Industry officials believe the partnership could support economic activity, generate employment opportunities, and increase foreign exchange earnings through higher-value mineral exports.