In a major boost to bilateral cooperation, Pakistan has dispatched its first consignment of enriched rare earth elements and critical minerals to U.S. Strategic Metals (USSM).
The shipment marks the launch of a $500 million partnership framework, formalized earlier this month, and underscores a new chapter in Pakistan-U.S. strategic collaboration.
The milestone follows the signing of two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on September 8, 2025, witnessed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Army Chief Asim Munir, and senior officials from both capitals. The accords align with Washington’s policy to diversify supply chains for materials vital to defense, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing.
The agreement covers the full mineral value chain, from exploration and processing to concentrate production and the eventual setup of refineries in Pakistan. The initial shipment includes antimony, copper concentrate, and rare earths containing neodymium and praseodymium.
For Pakistan, the deal opens doors to the global mineral economy, with prospects for revenue, employment, and technology transfer. With untapped resources valued at nearly $6 trillion, the country holds vast reserves of rare earths and metals.
For the U.S., the pact strengthens supply security of critical minerals, reducing reliance on other markets and supporting its defense and high-tech industries.
USSM CEO Stacy W. Hastie hailed the move as “the first step in a promising journey with Pakistan’s Frontier Works Organisation to supply vital minerals and deepen economic ties.”
Also Read Pakistan and Deloitte Move Forward in Discussions on Critical Minerals and Energy Reforms
