Punjab introduces Mines and Minerals Bill 2025; CM Maryam invites US investment

LAHORE: The Punjab Mines and Minerals Bill 2025 was presented in the Punjab Assembly on Tuesday, introducing a comprehensive framework for regulating the province’s mining sector and curbing illegal extraction activities.

Under the proposed legislation, a Licensing Authority will be established to issue, suspend, and terminate mining licenses. The bill also proposes the creation of a Mining and Minerals Force, which will be tasked with preventing illegal mining across Punjab. The force, to be headed by the Director General, will wear uniforms and have the authority to make arrests. Dedicated Mining and Minerals Police Stations will also be set up to support enforcement operations.

In addition, the bill calls for the formation of special courts to handle mining and minerals-related cases. Appeals against the decisions of these courts will be heard in the Sessions Court. The legislation also envisions an Exploration Promotion Division, responsible for developing a comprehensive geological database to facilitate exploration and investment.

The bill also outlines bidding procedures, fines, and penalties, while proposing to scrap several outdated draft laws once the new framework is approved.

Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz met with US Consul General Stetson Sanders in Lahore and invited American investors to explore the vast investment opportunities in the province.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister highlighted Punjab’s cultural diversity and rich heritage, reiterating its potential to become a global tourism hub. She also lauded the growing strength of Pakistan-US relations and welcomed greater collaboration in trade, technology, and development.

The US Consul General thanked the Chief Minister for her warm hospitality and commended Punjab’s e-business initiative, noting its role in promoting investment and economic growth across the province.