Islamabad: Pakistan and China have agreed to operationalize the China-Gwadar-Africa shipping corridor as part of a new five-year maritime action plan covering 2025 to 2029, The Express Tribune reported.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening Gwadar’s role as a regional trade hub by expanding trade routes and improving connectivity with Central Asia, Afghanistan, and West Asia.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the plan underscores Pakistan’s commitment to maritime cooperation with China, focusing on marine economy development, sustainable resource use, and environmental protection under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Key projects outlined in the plan include the expansion of Gwadar Port, completion of Free Zone Stage II, and fast-tracking of the East Bay Expressway Phase II. The integration of the New Gwadar International Airport with the port has also been marked a priority to facilitate multi-transit connectivity.
The plan further details the development of feeder routes, bonded warehouses, and a “Green Port” initiative. Gwadar’s North Free Zone is expected to host 15 industries, including seafood, dates, and tuna processing plants, petrochemical facilities, and relocated car manufacturing units from China.
To support economic development, the two countries will sign agreements with local business entities and launch a blue economy training program for 1,000 locals in fisheries, aquaculture, and logistics. Officials project the program will help generate 25,000 jobs and contribute up to 30% to Gwadar’s GDP by 2027.
Samra Zulfiqar, a real estate analyst at Zameen.com, is passionate about finding projects that offer buyers the best returns. Her keen insights spotlight the market’s most promising opportunities.
