Karachi: Pakistan and China have advanced discussions on a major maritime industrial venture at Port Qasim, with a five-member delegation from China’s Shandong Xinxu Group meeting Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Chaudhry to review plans for an Integrated Maritime Industrial Complex (IMIC).
Valued between USD 1.1 billion and USD 2.2 billion, the proposed project aims to revitalise Pakistan’s maritime and heavy industrial base. The Chinese delegation was led by Shandong Xinxu Group Chairman Hou Jianxin.
Officials said the IMIC would comprise three core components: the revival of the Iron Ore and Coal Berth jetty—commonly known as the steel jetty—the development of shipbuilding and shipbreaking facilities, and the establishment of a modern steel mill integrated with port operations.
The steel jetty, originally built to serve Pakistan Steel Mills, is capable of handling bulk iron ore and coal shipments and can accommodate vessels ranging from 55,000 to 75,000 deadweight tonnes. It is linked to the mill through a conveyor system extending 4.5km to 8km, connecting stockyards to blast furnaces.
Welcoming the group’s interest, Minister Chaudhry directed the delegation to submit an unsolicited proposal outlining a comprehensive roadmap for the project. He asked for clearly defined concepts, implementation timelines, and detailed technical, financial and environmental feasibility assessments.
Once submitted, the proposal will be reviewed by a joint committee comprising officials from the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and representatives of the Shandong Xinxu Group, led by Additional Secretary Umar Zafar Sheikh.
The minister said the project must align with Pakistan’s broader industrial and sustainability priorities, with a focus on employment generation, value addition and environmentally responsible practices.
The IMIC concept was first unveiled by Chaudhry in November 2025 at a Port Qasim Authority event marking the port’s recognition as one of the world’s most improved container terminals. Branded as the “Steel-to-Green Sea” initiative, it seeks to integrate ship recycling with domestic steel production to reduce reliance on imported steel and promote the use of recyclable materials.
If approved, the complex would rank among Pakistan’s largest recent industrial investments, strengthening Port Qasim’s position as a regional hub for heavy manufacturing and maritime logistics.
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