ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has called on the Chinese operators of Gwadar Port and its free zone to fulfil their contractual obligations by presenting a clear, time-bound business plan aimed at accelerating industrialisation and making the strategic hub fully operational.
In this regard, the matter was raised during a meeting of the CPEC Joint Working Group on Gwadar, held ahead of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s upcoming visit to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit.
Islamabad reminded China Overseas Port Holding Company (COPHC) that Pakistan was still awaiting a comprehensive investment schedule, performance indicators, and operational forecasts for the Gwadar Free Zone.
Pakistan urged COPHC to develop facilities including ship refuelling, LPG terminals, and ship-to-ship refuelling operations, coupled with an aggressive marketing plan to attract strategic investors.
Furthermore, the Chinese representatives argued that Gwadar Port requires additional resources for sustainable operations. They proposed policy support measures, increased shipping routes, and diverting a share of Karachi Port’s cargo to Gwadar.
In addition, two Chinese firms, Agven Private Limited and Hangeng Trade Company Private Limited, have recently been authorised to export potassium sulphate.
Also Read: Gwadar Port Authority, Chinese firm agree to boost investment
Moreover, infrastructure improvements have also been made, including completion of electricity and water supply for both free zones. However, Pakistan continues to press Beijing to deliver on internal infrastructure commitments and present a five-year business plan to ensure Gwadar’s transformation into a fully functional economic hub.
