Punjab Launches Pink Salt Financing Scheme to Boost Exports and Create 10,000 Jobs

Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has launched the Pink Salt Value Addition Financing Scheme, a major initiative designed to strengthen the province’s mineral industry, increase exports, and generate employment by promoting value-added processing of Pakistan’s famous pink salt.

During the digital inauguration ceremony on Wednesday, the chief minister also announced the establishment of a 110-acre Pink Salt Mineral Processing Zone near Quaidabad. The dedicated industrial zone aims to transform Punjab into a leading hub for pink salt processing and export.

Officials briefed the chief minister that the processing zone will house more than 200 mineral processing units, attracting an estimated Rs150 million in investment. The project is expected to create around 10,000 direct employment opportunities, providing a significant boost to the local economy.

To support investors and businesses, the government will also establish a Business Facilitation Centre and a model retail outlet within the processing zone. These facilities will provide assistance to entrepreneurs, streamline investment processes, and promote high-quality pink salt products in domestic and international markets.

The initiative is part of the Punjab government’s broader strategy to move beyond raw mineral exports by encouraging value-added manufacturing, improving industrial growth, and increasing the province’s export potential.

Industry experts believe that developing modern processing facilities and supporting investors could enhance Pakistan’s position in the global pink salt market while creating sustainable economic opportunities for local communities.