China plans Maritime Industrial Complex in Pakistan

September 05, 2025 (MLN): China has proposed the establishment of an Integrated Maritime Industrial Complex in Pakistan, marking a major step in strengthening investment and cooperation in the country’s maritime and port sectors.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry discussed the proposal during meetings in Beijing with senior executives of Shandong Xinxu Group Corporation, Tianjin Dongjiang Comprehensive Free Trade Zone (TDFTPZ), and FANJIEYUN International.

In these discussions, he explored opportunities for joint ventures in shipbuilding, fleet expansion, port development, logistics, and seafood exports, while also emphasizing compliance with international standards and facilitating investments in Gwadar and Port Qasim.

During talks with Shandong Xinxu Group Corporation, Chaudhry welcomed the plan for the Integrated Maritime Industrial Complex and assured full support in terms of land, utilities, and regulatory approvals.

He stressed that ship recycling facilities must meet Hong Kong Convention (HKC) and European Union compliance standards.

He also invited the company to consider joint ventures with the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) for new builds, leasing, and feeder services connected to Gwadar, and proposed collaboration on dry dock or floating dock facilities, as well as EU-certified fish processing and aquaculture research for seafood exports.

In a separate meeting with officials from the Tianjin Dongjiang Comprehensive Free Trade Zone, the minister was briefed on ship financing and leasing opportunities, with a focus on expanding PNSC’s fleet without heavy upfront costs, particularly for Aframax tankers, container ships, and bulk carriers.

He encouraged investments in bonded warehouses, cold chain systems, and bulk cargo handling at Gwadar and floated the idea of a China–Gwadar–Africa logistics corridor. He also called for training programs for Pakistani free zone managers and customs officials and requested a Dongjiang investment delegation to visit Gwadar in 2025.

Chaudhry also met executives of FANJIEYUN International, a leading frozen food and meat importer, to discuss prospects for Gwadar as a logistics hub with bonded warehousing and transshipment corridors. He suggested reviving feeder vessel services and conducting a feasibility study for a freight hub operation at the port.

The minister’s visit is part of the prime minister’s delegation aimed at attracting investment and enhancing cooperation in Pakistan’s maritime and port sectors, with a particular focus on developing Gwadar as a regional trade and logistics center.

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