Pakistan and China have launched the 2025–2029 Maritime Action Plan under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The initiative seeks to transform Gwadar into a regional trade hub while strengthening maritime cooperation. Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the plan reflects Pakistan’s commitment to a resilient maritime economy and deeper ties with China.
Airport-Port Integration Under Maritime Action Plan
The Pakistan-China Launch 2025–2029 Maritime Action Plan framework prioritises Gwadar’s infrastructure. Projects include Gwadar Port expansion, Free Zone Stage II completion, and fast-tracking of East Bay Expressway Phase II. Importantly, the New Gwadar International Airport will be integrated with the port to enable multi-modal transit and boost logistics efficiency.
China-Gwadar-Africa Corridor Development
Officials announced plans to operationalise the China-Gwadar-Africa shipping corridor with five feeder routes and bonded warehouses. Gwadar will be developed as a “Green Port,” connected with the Islamabad–Türkiye–Iran transport corridor. Expanded transhipment facilities will position Gwadar as a gateway for Afghanistan, Central Asia, and West Asia.
Industrial Growth and Job Creation
Fifteen new industries will be developed in the Gwadar Free Zone’s North Zone. These include seafood processing, petrochemicals, and auto manufacturing relocated from China. The projects are expected to generate 25,000 jobs and contribute 30% to Gwadar’s GDP by 2027, making industry a central pillar of the action plan.
Smart Ports and Blue Economy Training
The plan calls for electronic data interchange and smart port technologies to connect Gwadar with Chinese and global shipping networks. Alongside, a Blue Economy Training Centre will train 1,000 locals in logistics, fisheries, and aquaculture, ensuring sustainable manpower for Gwadar’s growing economy.
Science, Tourism, and Sustainability Initiatives
Beyond trade, the framework supports marine research centres, CPEC-linked industrial parks for shipbuilding, and aquaculture projects. Tourism ventures, such as cruises and water sports, are also included. These initiatives align with the Belt and Road’s (BRI) green energy and ocean goals, ensuring balanced growth and environmental protection.
Education and Human Capital Development
The action plan highlights education as a cross-cutting priority. Pakistani and Chinese universities will launch academic partnerships and training exchanges to build skilled manpower for port management, fisheries, and logistics. This investment in people will secure Gwadar’s long-term role as a regional hub.
Strengthening Pakistan’s Regional Role
Minister Junaid Chaudhry stressed that the Pakistan-China Launch 2025–2029 Maritime Action Plan will integrate Gwadar into global trade routes. More importantly, it will consolidate Pakistan’s role in regional connectivity, linking South Asia with Central Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
Related stories:
