RIAA Barker Gillette has advised a global leader in commercial explosives and blasting technology on its potential entry into the mining sector in Pakistan. The client, a publicly listed multinational with operations spanning multiple continents, is assessing opportunities to manufacture emulsion explosives, supply products including ammonium nitrate, boosters and detonators, and provide blasting services to the Reko Diq and other mining projects in Balochistan.
The Reko Diq copper-gold project is situated within the Tethyan Metallogenic Belt, one of the world’s most mineral-rich geological formations. As global demand for critical minerals accelerates, the mining sector in Pakistan —particularly the Chagai district in Balochistan—is attracting significant international interest.
The firm prepared a detailed country report outlining the legal and regulatory framework applicable to the proposed business activities. The analysis addressed federal and provincial regimes governing explosives manufacturing, storage and supply, as well as as sector-specific approvals, licensing requirements and compliance considerations relevant to operating in this highly regulated and sensitive sector. The report also covered foreign investment protections, import and export regulations, foreign exchange controls and structuring considerations.
Beyond the legal framework, the firm undertook a comprehensive assessment of both legal and non-legal country risk considerations relating to Pakistan, Balochistan and the Reko Diq Project. Drawing on deep local experience, the report examined broader regulatory, political and operational factors relevant to market entry. This practical and commercially oriented overview supported informed decision-making at an early stage of market entry.
“Global companies seeking to establish explosives supply and manufacturing operations in the mining sector in Pakistan require more than conventional legal analysis. They need advisers who can synthesize complex regulatory requirements with on-the-ground commercial realities,” said Shafaq Rehman, Partner at RIAA Barker Gillette. “Our integrated approach reflects the depth of expertise necessary to navigate sensitive, highly regulated sectors with confidence.”
The advisory reinforces the firm’s position as a trusted adviser to international clients navigating complex regulatory environments in Pakistan’s mineral industry.
The team was led by Shafaq Rehman (Partner – Pakistan) and included Associates Ahsan Amir, Saad Khan, Rameen Asif and Rija Khan.
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RIAA Barker Gillette is Pakistan’s premier law firm, with an on-the-ground presence in four major cities in Pakistan: Karachi, Islamabad and Lahore and affiliated offices in Dubai (DIFC) and London.
The firm practices in all areas of corporate, commercial and dispute resolution law. Leading international legal directories consistently recognise the firm as a top-tier law firm in Pakistan.
RIAA Barker Gillette is the exclusive member firm in Pakistan for Lex Mundi, the world’s leading network of independent law firms with in-depth experience in over 125 countries worldwide.
