Pakistan, China Launch Five-Year Gwadar Maritime Plan

In a significant move to enhance regional trade, Pakistan and China have decided to operationalize the China-Gwadar-Africa shipping corridor under a new five year maritime action plan (2025–2029). The project is aimed at making Gwadar a central regional trade hub, widening routes and enhancing connectivity with Central Asia, Afghanistan, and West Asia.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry emphasized Pakistan’s dedication to enhance deeper maritime collaboration with China, sustainable marine development, resource use, and environmental conservation under CPEC.

The blueprint dictates important infrastructure development such as the expansion of Gwadar Port, completion of the Free Zone Stage II, and expedient development of the East Bay Expressway Phase II. Its integration with the port is also given priority so that smooth multi-transit connectivity may be achieved.

Moreover, five feeder routes, bonded warehouses, and a Green Port project are underway. Seafood and tuna processing facilities, petrochemical plants, and even the re-location of Chinese sectors like automobile manufacturing to Gwadar are also planned.

With MoUs to be executed with local industry, and a blue economy training initiative to upskill 1,000 locals, the project will create 25,000 jobs and add 30% to Gwadar’s GDP by 2027, a bold leap toward making Gwadar an economic success.

Read more: Pakistan Urges Chinese Industry Relocation to Gwadar