BEIJING: Pakistan’s glittering treasures are turning heads at the 2025 China Nanjing International Mineral, Gemstone & Fossil Expo, where 10 leading Pakistani companies are showcasing rare and high-quality gems and minerals.
Held from May 15 to 19, the event has transformed its 40,000-square-meter venue into a global hub for over 500 exhibitors from 50+ countries, drawing collectors, jewelers, and buyers eager to explore the finest minerals and fossils from around the world.
The Pakistani pavilion, with its dazzling display of emeralds, tourmalines, topaz, morganite, aquamarine, quartz, pyrite, marble, and onyx, is garnering strong attention. These specimens—sourced from mineral-rich regions like Gilgit-Baltistan, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa—are popular not only for jewelry but also for high-end decorative use.
“Pakistan possesses extraordinary geological treasures, and our trade ties with China are expanding beyond gemstones to industrial minerals,” said Ghulam Mustafa of Fine Art Minerals, a returning exhibitor.
Another participant, Muhammad Sadiq of Fine Nagar Gems & Minerals, echoed the sentiment, noting increased buyer interest.
“Last year’s response was amazing, and this year we’ve brought an even wider collection. The Chinese market has huge potential, and we’re here to deepen cooperation.”
While Pakistan is globally recognized for gems such as Swat emeralds and Katlang’s pink topaz, the country’s mining sector currently contributes just 3% to its GDP. But change may be on the horizon.
In April, the government unveiled the National Minerals Harmonisation Framework 2025—a sweeping policy reform aimed at streamlining investment and boosting exports. Experts see this as a critical move to unlock the sector’s potential.
The vibrant display in Nanjing serves as both a showcase of Pakistan’s geological wealth and a signal of its intent to play a bigger role in the global mineral trade.
With rising international interest, especially from China, Pakistan’s mining sector might just be ready to carve out a much larger share of the global gemstone market.
