The federal government has made a notable decision to channel half of the public sector imports through Gwadar Port, with the backing of the Special Investment Facilitation Council.
This decision followed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent visit to China, where the importance of expanding Gwadar Port was highlighted. The Ministry of Maritime Affairs is now set to present a summary to the cabinet about implementing this change in the import route.
Gwadar Port plays a crucial role in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), serving as a vital trade link between China, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. At present, the port can handle two large ships simultaneously. However, by 2045, its capacity is expected to grow to accommodate up to 150 ships. This expansion is anticipated to boost regional connectivity, create job opportunities, and attract foreign investment.
This initiative follows a directive from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who earlier instructed authorities to ensure that 50 percent of all public sector cargo is transported through Gwadar Port. These instructions were issued during a review meeting in Islamabad, where PM Shehbaz was briefed about the recent visit of a Chinese experts’ delegation from July 30 to August 6, 2024.
The meeting with the Chinese delegation involved various ministries and led to discussions on enhancing cooperation in multiple sectors. The progress achieved during this visit is expected to foster advancements in trade, energy, agriculture, IT, communication, and infrastructure.
