NRL’s New Copper-Gold Find Energizes Mineral Market

National Resources Limited (NRL), a 100% Pakistani-owned mining venture, has announced a breakthrough copper-gold discovery at the Tang Kaur prospect in Chagai, Balochistan, a move set to revitalize Pakistan’s mineral economy.

Revealed by NRL Chairman and Lucky Cement CEO Muhammad Ali Tabba during the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025, the discovery marks a new chapter in the country’s resource development. NRL, formed by a strategic partnership between Lucky Cement, Fatima Fertilizer, and Liberty Mills Limited, was granted a mining lease in October 2023. Within this short span, the company has identified 18 promising mineral prospects in its licensed zone.

Key Find at Tang Kaur

The Tang Kaur prospect has quickly emerged as a high-potential site. In its ongoing exploration, NRL has drilled 13 diamond holes totaling 3,517 meters. All drills intersected porphyry-style alteration and sulfide mineralization, with early assay results confirming mineralized zones between 48 to 148 meters at shallow depths.

The copper content ranges from 0.23% to 0.48%, gold between 0.09–0.14 g/t, and silver from 1.30 to 6.21 g/t, translating into a copper-equivalent of 0.28% to 0.56%. Crucially, the deposit remains open to further expansion northward, eastward, and at depth.

Next Steps & Global Validation

NRL will begin further drilling in May 2025 and is on track to release an internationally certified NI 43-101 Technical Report by the end of the year, with oversight from global consultants. The company anticipates a 3–4 year phase of advanced exploration and feasibility studies.

In addition, NRL has secured a lead-zinc exploration license next to an established deposit with an existing Bankable Feasibility Study. It is also evaluating downstream processing to ensure long-term sustainability and value addition.

Community Development at the Core

Over 90% of NRL’s workforce is locally sourced. The company is deeply committed to empowering surrounding communities through access to clean water, education, healthcare, and employment programs.

“Mining thrives when local communities prosper,” stated Tabba.

$100M Exploration Fund & Expansion Plans

In collaboration with the Balochistan government and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), NRL is pursuing two more licenses, backed by a $100 million exploration fund. A new MoU with the Oil & Gas Development Company has also been signed to explore future mineral-rich sites.

This landmark find not only enhances Pakistan’s mining potential but also strengthens investor confidence in the country’s natural resource ecosystem.