Japanese heavy machinery manufacturer Komatsu is making a major move into Pakistan’s mining sector with a $100 million investment to establish a mining equipment maintenance hub in Karachi by the end of the year, according to a report by Nikkei Asia.
The new entity, Komatsu Pakistan Mining (SMC-Private) Limited, will provide inspection, repair, and technical services to support Pakistan’s expanding mining industry.
Strengthening Pakistan’s Mining Ecosystem
The Karachi-based hub will serve as a critical support center for heavy-duty mining equipment, helping minimize downtime and boost operational efficiency for local and international projects. Komatsu also plans to build a local workforce of up to 500 engineers and operators, offering skilled job opportunities and technical knowledge transfer.
Tied to the Reko Diq Mega Project
Komatsu’s expansion follows its announcement of a $440 million supply contract with Canadian mining giant Barrick Gold to support the Reko Diq copper-gold mine in Balochistan. The deal, which spans the first five years of the project starting fiscal 2026, marks Komatsu’s first major mining equipment deployment in its Middle East territory.
“The deal reflects a deepening partnership with Barrick and a strategic commitment to the region,” Komatsu said in a company statement.
Regional Expansion & Infrastructure Boost
Beyond Pakistan, Komatsu plans to make additional investments in Komatsu Middle East FZE, its regional base in Dubai, to manage the expanded footprint and logistics for supporting mining operations across the Middle East and South Asia.
Why Reko Diq Matters
The Reko Diq mine is considered one of the world’s largest untapped copper and gold deposits. Its development is expected to inject billions into Pakistan’s economy, enhance exports, and create long-term employment across sectors. The ownership is equally split between Barrick Gold (50%) and the governments of Pakistan and Balochistan (50%).
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With Komatsu’s local investment and Barrick’s development expertise, the project is shaping up to become a flagship for industrial transformation in Pakistan.
Conclusion
Komatsu’s decision to invest in Pakistan goes beyond machinery—it signals rising confidence in the country’s mining potential, particularly in Reko Diq. With local hiring, technical infrastructure, and long-term partnerships, the Japanese firm is positioning itself as a key enabler in Pakistan’s resource-driven growth story.
