Barrick Mining Delays Reko Diq Copper-Gold Project in Pakistan Amid Security Concerns

Barrick Mining is postponing the Reko Diq copper-gold project in Pakistan due to escalating security issues in the region and the Middle East. The review of the project will be extended by 12 months starting July 2026, impacting previously stated budgets and timelines. Reko Diq is one of the world's largest undeveloped copper-gold deposits, with an estimated potential to generate over $70 billion in cash flow over 37 years.

Published Mar 28, 2026

Barrick Mining is delaying the Reko Diq copper-gold project in Pakistan in response to escalating security concerns linked to conflicts in the Middle East. The review of the project, initially launched in February, will be extended for 12 months from July 2026.

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This delay is expected to affect budgets and timelines, with first production now projected for 2029 instead of 2028. Reko Diq, located in Balochistan, is among the world's largest undeveloped copper-gold deposits, potentially generating over $70 billion in cash flow over 37 years. Increased violence in the region has raised operational risks and complicated supply routes for equipment and materials.