Reko Diq project may face further delay

Production at the Reko Diq copper-gold project could be delayed by two years to 2030, pending improved security in Balochistan and de-escalation in the Middle East crisis, according to government sources and industry insiders. War in the neighbouring Iran alongside persistent security challenges in Balochistan have reportedly pushed investors to adjust the original 2028 timeline. Canadian mining titan Barrick Mining (formerly Gold) Corporation is expected to resume full-scale development by mid-2027 following an ongoing internal project review. While the company has yet to issue an official announcement, its local officials express optimism that the multibillion-dollar venture remains on track.

Despite the operational slowdown, the project management has retained all 700 permanent and roughly 2,000 contractual workers at the site, though some third-party service contracts were allowed to expire. Barrick, as well as senior federal and Balochistan provincial government officials, did not immediately respond to requests for their comment. Iran situation alongside persistent security challenges in Balochistan has reportedly pushed investors to adjust the 2028 timeline Despite recent timeline concerns, the company sources maintain that daily operations on the ground remain active. “Research, administrative work, and community development projects are progressing normally,” said a company employee speaking on condition of anonymity. “Speculation about the project’s future is baseless and fuelled by ill-informed or irresponsible elements. ” Another official echoed this confidence, pointing out that nearly $1 billion has already been invested in the venture. “The project is technically viable and holds immense promise for all stakeholders. External factors may delay it, but the…