Planning Minister Calls for Early Launch of Transshipment Operations Between Gwadar and Persian Gulf

The Federal Minister for Planning, Ahsan Iqbal, led a high-level meeting of the Cabinet Committee on the Operationalization of Gwadar Port to fast-track the port’s operations. The meeting focused on key strategies to make Gwadar a major international trade hub, with discussions covering several important aspects:

1. International Conference and Global Awareness: The committee plans to organize an international conference in Islamabad to raise global awareness about Gwadar Port’s potential. A robust marketing strategy and diplomatic outreach are being developed to attract investment and trade, particularly from Central Asian countries.
2. Transshipment Operations: The Ministry of Maritime Affairs is in talks with private shipping liners to start transshipment operations between Gwadar and the Persian Gulf. The initial cargo will focus on minerals, dates, seafood, and cement, with an emphasis on sectors like mining, fisheries, and processing industries.
3. Promoting Gwadar’s Geostrategic Importance: Ahsan Iqbal stressed the need for international roadshows to highlight Gwadar’s strategic location as a link between the Gulf and Central Asia. He emphasized that Gwadar Port should be promoted for its cost-effective trade routes and the incentives available for international businesses.
4. Global Visibility: The Minister highlighted the need for promotional materials to be distributed through Pakistan’s embassies and diplomatic missions worldwide, ensuring global visibility for Gwadar as a key trade hub.
5. Four-Nation Consortium for Connectivity: Ahsan Iqbal instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to initiate a study with a four-nation consortium aimed at connecting South Asia to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) through an undersea tunnel from Gwadar to Oman. Proposals for ferry connections between Gwadar and the Gulf are also under consideration.
6. International Shipping Crew Welfare: The Gwadar Port Authority was directed to ensure high-quality accommodations and recreational facilities for international shipping crew members, including a 5-star hotel, Pearl Continental.
7. Aquaculture Sector Development: The minister was briefed on joint efforts by the Fisheries Department of Gilgit-Baltistan and China Overseas Ports Holding Company for land surveys and feasibility studies in the aquaculture sector. He emphasized involving local fishermen in decision-making to safeguard their interests and ensure sustainable practices.
8. Mineral Corridor and Rail Link: The Ministry of Railways confirmed the completion of a feasibility study for a Mineral Corridor Rail Link, aiming to develop Gwadar into a dedicated mining port for Balochistan.
9. Balochistan Government Updates: The representative of the Balochistan government reported that 30% of the Gwadar Safe City Project has been completed, with full completion expected by June 2026. Additionally, discussions were held regarding the location for the Gwadar Chamber of Commerce and the potential for Turbat to become the winter capital of Balochistan, with Turbat being the preferred option due to its larger population and commercial base.

Key Takeaways:

• Gwadar is being positioned as a strategic trade hub connecting South Asia, the Gulf, and Central Asia.
• Efforts are underway to attract investment and improve infrastructure for mining, fisheries, and trade.
• International visibility and shipping operations are central to the port’s development.
• The Balochistan government is making progress on related infrastructure projects, including the Gwadar Safe City Project.

The development of Gwadar Port is not only critical for Pakistan’s economy but also for enhancing its connectivity with global trade routes. Do you think these steps will effectively boost Gwadar’s potential as a trade hub?