Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) has advanced its Barite, Lead and Zinc (BLZ) project in Balochistan into the execution phase after appointing Germany’s DMT as project management consultant, marking a significant step in the development of one of Pakistan’s largest planned open-pit mining projects.

In a notice submitted to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Wednesday, PPL said it signed the consultancy agreement with DMT on Tuesday, formally initiating project execution activities. The BLZ project is being developed through a joint venture between PPL and the Government of Balochistan.

The appointment of DMT follows the signing of Amendment No. 1 to the project’s operating agreement in April 2025, which expanded the venture beyond barite to include lead and zinc deposits.

PPL said the selection of DMT reflects its commitment to international engineering standards, technical expertise, and efficient project delivery. The company expects the project to contribute to economic development in Balochistan while strengthening Pakistan’s mining industry.

Once operational, the project is expected to increase domestic production and exports of barite, lead, and zinc, minerals widely used in oil and gas drilling, batteries, alloys, and other industrial applications. The government has identified mining as a priority sector to attract foreign investment and increase export revenues.

The project originated under the 2004 Barytes Project agreement between PPL and the Government of Balochistan. The amended operating agreement signed in April 2025 broadened its scope to develop lead and zinc resources alongside barite.