Gwadar Port to serve as Gulf-China trade gateway

January 09, 2025 (MLN): To generate trade traffic through Gwadar Port, particularly between the Gulf countries and China, a comprehensive action plan needs to be developed within 6 months.

Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal stressed during a high-level meeting on the operationalization of Gwadar Port in Islamabad.

This initiative aims to create job opportunities for local residents and boost the regional economy, he added.

He emphasized that Gwadar provides the shortest trade route to Gulf and Central Asian countries, including Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan, and has immense potential to serve as a key regional transshipment hub.

The Minister noted the lack of commercial analysis and a comprehensive operational plan for Gwadar Port, calling for immediate efforts to unlock its potential.

He directed the preparation of marketing templates and packages showcasing Gwadar’s cost-effective trade routes and potential incentives for international businesses.

These materials will be distributed through Pakistan’s embassies and missions worldwide to promote Gwadar Port on a global scale.

The Minister urged the Balochistan Mining Department to develop proposals for exporting finished white marble instead of raw materials, emphasizing the importance of value addition to enhance Pakistan’s mineral exports.

To ensure Gwadar remains competitive in the region, the Minister instructed the National Logistics Cell (NLC) to conduct a detailed cost analysis for transshipment routes.

He highlighted the need for competitive pricing and viable logistics solutions to attract international trade. 

He reiterated that the port offers the cheapest shipping options and must be marketed aggressively to the international community.

During the meeting, the Minister emphasized the strategic significance of Gwadar Port as one of Pakistan's most valuable assets, outlining it as the most economical and efficient route for imports and exports.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to making Gwadar a thriving regional trade hub, with all stakeholders directed to work collaboratively toward this goal.

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