The Cabinet Committee on Chinese Investment Projects (CCoCIP) has directed swift action on finalising a comprehensive road map for the relocation of Chinese industries to Gwadar, ahead of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s upcoming visit to Beijing.
Recently, the committee reviewed progress on key Chinese investment projects, urging all concerned ministries to accelerate implementation to foster a more investor-friendly environment. The Board of Investment (BoI), in coordination with the Ministry of Industries and Production, is leading the preparation of the relocation plan, which will be presented to Chinese authorities during the PM’s visit.
Gwadar Industrial Relocation Plan Nears Completion
The BoI updated the committee on the progress of the road map for relocating Chinese industries to Gwadar. CCoCIP directed the board to finalise and submit the plan without further delay, reinforcing its importance in upcoming bilateral discussions with China.
CCoCIP Seeks Urgent Action on Gwadar Desalination Plant Power Link
Expressing concern over delays in infrastructure, the committee criticised the incomplete connection of Gwadar’s desalination plant to the national grid via Panjgur. The Power Division was given three days to propose fast-track solutions, highlighting the project’s strategic national importance.
Electricity Supply Delays at Rashakai SEZ Under Scrutiny
The committee also raised issues with the stalled revision of the electricity supply mechanism for the Rashakai Special Economic Zone. The BoI was tasked with drafting a detailed case study outlining the causes of delay and specific timelines. Meanwhile, the Power Division and NEPRA were directed to expedite implementation and submit a joint report at the next meeting.
Seafood Transhipment from Gwadar Port Gains Momentum
In efforts to activate maritime trade potential, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs was asked to finalise consultations with local fishermen on launching international seafood transhipment via Gwadar Port. A compliance report was requested to track progress.
Sindh’s Coastal Development Issues Require Resolution
The Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives was instructed to resolve all outstanding matters with the Sindh government regarding the Karachi Comprehensive Coastal Development Zone. A formal report on this coordination is to be submitted for review.
Fertiliser Export Policy Revised for Gwadar Trade Boost
The CCoCIP noted that the Ministry of Commerce had issued a Statutory Regulatory Order (SRO) to allow the export of potassium sulphate fertiliser from Gwadar Port by relaxing existing rules under the Export Policy Order, marking a step forward in enhancing trade flow through Gwadar.
Gwadar Free Zone Foreign Currency Project Under Review
The committee also pressed for the resolution of inter-ministerial issues that were delaying the launch of a foreign currency facilitation pilot project in the Gwadar Free Zone. The Planning Ministry was directed to submit an update on implementation.
BoI Directed to Act on Pending Chinese Investment Decisions
The Cabinet Committee emphasised that the BoI must implement all previously agreed decisions without further delays and furnish a comprehensive progress report. This directive comes amid Pakistan’s broader push to improve investor confidence and accelerate the momentum of Chinese-funded projects under CPEC.
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