QUETTA: The Balochistan Economic Forum (BEF) has expressed concern over the growing foreign interest in the province’s mineral resources, which he said is unfolding without adequate public disclosure, local consultation, or clarity on the long-term economic and social costs for its people.

In a statement, BEF President Sardar Shoukat Popalzai said that while foreign investment is essential and welcome, the people of Balochistan had placed genuine hope in initiatives such as CPEC for broad-based development. However, he noted that progress has remained narrowly focused, largely ignoring critical sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, livestock, industry, and employment generation.

Traditional industries, including shipbreaking, have declined, industrial estates have lost relevance, and major energy and power projects have failed to translate into meaningful socio-economic uplift.

Mr Popalzai emphasised that development without inclusion creates mistrust.

Published in Dawn, December 30th, 2025