Japanese heavy machinery giant Komatsu is making a major investment in Pakistan’s mining sector, planning to establish a dedicated maintenance and service hub in Karachi, Nikkei Asia reported.
The new entity, Komatsu Pakistan Mining (SMC-Private) Limited, is expected to launch by the end of the year. The company will invest $100 million to build facilities focused on inspecting and repairing mining equipment. Komatsu also plans to grow its local workforce to around 500 engineers and operators, supporting both domestic and regional mining operations.
The expansion follows Komatsu’s existing presence in Pakistan, where it already operates a software development center.
In a major development announced Wednesday, Komatsu revealed it has signed a $440 million agreement with Barrick Gold of Canada to supply mining equipment for the Reko Diq gold and copper project in Balochistan. Equipment deliveries are expected to begin in fiscal year 2026.
“This deal marks Komatsu’s first major mining equipment placement in the Middle East territory,” the company said in a statement, describing it as a “significant milestone” in its partnership with Barrick Gold.
To support the Reko Diq project, Komatsu will not only establish a presence in Pakistan but also increase investment in its Middle East regional headquarters in Dubai, aiming to strengthen its service capabilities across the region.
The Reko Diq mine, one of the world’s largest untapped copper and gold reserves, is jointly owned by Barrick Gold (50%) and the governments of Pakistan and Balochistan (50%). Its development is expected to deliver a major boost to Pakistan’s economy, offering long-term economic and employment benefits.
Komatsu’s investment signals growing international confidence in Pakistan’s mining sector, particularly as global demand for copper and gold continues to rise.
