Pakistan eyes blue economy growth with China via Gwadar

Joint ventures in shipbuilding, logistics, and port development highlighted

P.c. Gwadar Port Authority

Pakistan eyes blue economy growth with China via Gwadar


Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has urged stronger maritime collaboration with China, highlighting joint opportunities in shipbuilding, port development, and logistics to position Gwadar as a regional trade hub.

During meetings in Beijing, he welcomed Shandong Xinxu Group Corporation’s proposal to develop an Integrated Maritime Industrial Complex in Pakistan. He assured full support with land, utilities, and regulatory clearances, while stressing that ship recycling facilities must meet Hong Kong Convention (HKC) and European Union standards.

P.c. Gwadar Port Authority

The minister noted the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation’s (PNSC) fleet expansion and invited Shandong to explore ventures in shipbuilding, leasing, and feeder services linked to Gwadar. He also suggested collaboration on dry docks at Port Qasim and Gwadar, alongside EU-certified fish processing and aquaculture projects to strengthen seafood exports.

In talks with Tianjin Dongjiang Comprehensive Free Trade Zone (TDFTPZ), China’s leading shipping and logistics hub, he discussed ship financing and leasing solutions to expand PNSC’s fleet, including Aframax tankers and container vessels. He encouraged Dongjiang firms to invest in Gwadar’s bonded warehouses, cold chain facilities, and cargo handling infrastructure while proposing a China–Gwadar–Africa logistics corridor. He also requested training programs for Pakistani free zone managers and invited an investment mission to Gwadar in 2025.

Additionally, meetings with FANJIEYUN International focused on developing Gwadar as a logistics hub through bonded warehousing and transshipment corridors. Plans included reviving feeder vessel services and conducting a feasibility study for a freight hub.

The visit, part of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s delegation, aims to attract foreign investment and deepen maritime cooperation, positioning Gwadar as a strategic gateway for regional trade and logistics.