Mari Energies Limited, listed on Pakistan Stock Exchange as MARI, announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Mari Minerals Private Limited, has signed a joint venture agreement with Canada-based MSALABS Limited to develop and operate a full-service assay laboratory in Pakistan. The agreement outlines the establishment of a separate project company, equally owned by Mari Minerals and MSALABS, to oversee the laboratory’s operations. The collaboration is subject to obtaining all necessary corporate, regulatory, and governmental approvals before the project can commence.
According to the stock filing, the proposed laboratory will provide comprehensive mineral testing services covering all stages from sample preparation to assaying, and will be ISO-certified. This facility is intended to serve the growing needs of the mining and exploration sector in Pakistan, offering standardized and accurate testing capabilities that are expected to support both domestic and international stakeholders in mineral resource evaluation. By combining Mari Minerals’ local expertise with MSALABS’ global technical experience, the partnership aims to enhance Pakistan’s analytical infrastructure for mining operations.
The joint venture will operate as an independent project company with equal shareholding between the two partners. Mari Minerals brings in-depth knowledge of the local mining environment, regulatory requirements, and project management capabilities, while MSALABS contributes internationally recognized laboratory technology, operational protocols, and quality assurance standards. The collaboration is designed to bridge gaps in the current mineral testing infrastructure in Pakistan and provide exploration companies with access to reliable, timely, and high-quality assay services.
Industry experts note that establishing a dedicated ISO-certified laboratory in Pakistan is expected to facilitate mineral exploration projects, reduce dependency on overseas testing, and accelerate project timelines. The facility will be equipped to perform detailed chemical analysis, trace element detection, and other essential testing required for evaluating ore bodies and supporting resource planning. With this venture, Mari Energies positions itself as a strategic partner in the country’s resource development sector, reflecting growing interest in enhancing local capabilities and attracting investment in mining and geological exploration.
By entering this joint venture, Mari Minerals and MSALABS aim to create a hub for advanced mineral testing that adheres to global standards while meeting the specific needs of Pakistan’s mining industry. The initiative is expected to generate new opportunities for mining companies, geologists, and exploration firms, while promoting efficiency, transparency, and reliability in mineral analysis. As the project moves through regulatory approvals, stakeholders are anticipating the laboratory to become a central resource for assay services and a reference point for quality assurance in mineral testing across the country.
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