Federal Minister Chairs High-Level Meeting to Accelerate Gwadar Port Operationalization
Federal Minister for Planning, Ahsan Iqbal, chaired a key meeting of the Cabinet Committee focused on expediting the full operationalization of Gwadar Port—Pakistan’s emerging gateway for regional trade and connectivity.
Boosting Global Awareness and Investment
The committee reviewed a comprehensive strategy to position Gwadar Port as a major trade hub connecting South Asia, the Gulf, and Central Asia. Plans were discussed to host an international conference in Islamabad to highlight Gwadar’s strategic importance and attract foreign investors. A robust global marketing campaign and diplomatic outreach are also being developed to promote the port’s cost-effective trade routes and investor-friendly policies.
Engaging the Private Sector and Regional Partners
Officials briefed the minister that the Ministry of Maritime Affairs is in talks with private shipping companies to launch transshipment operations from Gwadar to the Persian Gulf. Initial cargo will include minerals, seafood, cement, and dates—targeting sectors like mining, processing, and fisheries.
The minister emphasized showcasing Gwadar at international roadshows and through Pakistani embassies worldwide to raise global visibility and investment interest.
Regional Integration and Infrastructure Development
Ahsan Iqbal highlighted Gwadar’s unique geostrategic position as the shortest trade route to Central Asia and the Gulf, especially for countries like Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. He called for a pre-feasibility study on a proposed undersea tunnel linking Gwadar to Oman and a potential four-nation trade corridor. Discussions are also underway for launching ferry services with Gulf countries.
Improving Port Facilities and Crew Services
The Director General of Gwadar Port Authority confirmed that international shipping crews will have access to high-standard lodging, including a 5-star Pearl Continental hotel. The minister directed the authority to ensure additional recreational and accommodation services to encourage repeat visits from global shipping lines.
Aquaculture and Sustainable Fishing Industry
In collaboration with the Gilgit-Baltistan Fisheries Department and China Overseas Ports Holding Company, joint surveys are underway to explore the aquaculture potential in Gwadar. The minister emphasized the importance of integrating local fishermen into the seafood value chain, ensuring their livelihoods are protected and sustainable fishing practices are adopted. Talks with Chinese trawler companies to establish fish processing plants are also progressing.
Mining and Economic Growth Initiatives
The Ministry of Railways has completed a feasibility study for a new Mineral Corridor Rail Link to transform Gwadar into a dedicated port for Balochistan’s mining exports. This will support ore smelting infrastructure and broader industrial development in the region.
Progress on Gwadar Safe City Project and Housing Initiatives
The Balochistan government reported that 30% of the Gwadar Safe City Project is complete, with full completion targeted by June 2026. The project received approval from the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) with a Rs. 1,500 million allocation under the 2025-26 Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP).
Tasks assigned to the provincial government include:
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Identifying land for the Gwadar Chamber of Commerce and Industry
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Designating a residential area for overseas Pakistanis and foreign investors
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Selecting a winter capital between Gwadar and Turbat
Turbat has been suggested as the preferred winter capital due to its larger population and commercial infrastructure.
