The Gwadar Special Economic Zone has once again emerged as the centerpiece of Pakistan’s economic future after the Chairman of the Association of Builders and Developers (ABAD), Muhammad Hassan Bakhshi, urged the federal government to activate the long-awaited industrial zone without further delay.
Speaking at a press conference in Gwadar, Bakhshi argued that Pakistan risks missing a historic economic opportunity if the Special Economic Zone remains inactive. He stressed that Gwadar has every ingredient required to become one of Asia’s most important industrial, logistics, and export hubs, but decisive government action is now essential.
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Senior Vice Chairman Syed Afzal Hamid, former ABAD Chairman Junaid Ashraf Taloo, and ABAD Gwadar Subcommittee Convener Affan Qureshi also attended the briefing.
Gwadar Special Economic Zone Should Host Chinese Industries
Bakhshi proposed a phased relocation of Chinese industries to the Gwadar Special Economic Zone, saying the move could dramatically strengthen Pakistan’s export sector.
According to him, manufacturers operating from Gwadar would gain faster access to Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and other Central Asian markets. This would increase Pakistani exports while positioning Gwadar as the primary gateway connecting South Asia with Central Asia.
He said Pakistan should move beyond viewing Gwadar solely as a deep-sea port and instead develop it into a fully integrated industrial and commercial city capable of supporting large-scale manufacturing and international trade.
Gwadar’s Strategic Location Remains an Untapped Economic Asset
The ABAD chairman described Gwadar as Pakistan’s future economic engine because of its strategic geographical position and naturally deep-water port.
He maintained that these advantages alone are not enough to attract investment. The government must simultaneously improve infrastructure, simplify investment regulations, and introduce business-friendly policies that provide confidence to both domestic and foreign investors.
According to Bakhshi, activating the Special Economic Zone would immediately improve investor sentiment and encourage industries to establish manufacturing facilities in Gwadar.
Local People Must Become Partners in Gwadar’s Growth
Bakhshi emphasized that Gwadar’s success should not be measured only by infrastructure projects but by improvements in the lives of local residents.
He called on the government to ensure that local communities receive priority in development initiatives through employment opportunities, vocational training, business financing, and easy access to low-cost loans.
He argued that sustainable development will only be possible when the people of Gwadar become active participants in economic growth rather than remaining observers.
Fisheries, Tourism and Natural Resources Need Immediate Investment
The ABAD chairman highlighted Balochistan’s enormous untapped economic potential, particularly in fisheries, tourism, natural resources, and private investment.
He proposed interest-free financing for local fishermen so they can modernize their boats, install advanced fishing equipment, and meet international seafood export standards.
Such reforms, he said, would increase Pakistan’s export earnings while improving the livelihoods of coastal communities.
More Flights and a Stronger Gwadar Development Authority
Bakhshi also called for a significant increase in domestic and international flights to Gwadar to improve connectivity for investors, exporters, tourists, and business travelers.
He further demanded that the Gwadar Development Authority (GDA) be granted greater financial autonomy and administrative powers so it can implement development projects more efficiently.
According to his proposal, the federal government should directly finance major infrastructure projects, while the Chief Minister of Balochistan and the Chief Secretary should conduct monthly visits to Gwadar to monitor development work and resolve public concerns without delay.
Gwadar Special Economic Zone Could Reshape Pakistan’s Trade Future
Bakhshi concluded that Pakistan stands at a critical economic crossroads. If the government combines strong political commitment with effective planning and close cooperation with the private sector, the Gwadar Special Economic Zone could become the country’s largest center for trade, manufacturing, exports, and foreign investment.
He said such a transformation would not only accelerate economic growth in Balochistan but also strengthen Pakistan’s position as a regional trade corridor connecting South Asia, Central Asia, China, and the Middle East.
According to ABAD, activating the Gwadar Special Economic Zone is no longer just another development proposal. It is a strategic economic decision that could redefine Pakistan’s future by creating thousands of jobs, attracting billions in investment, expanding exports, and establishing Gwadar as one of the region’s most influential commercial gateways.
For More Details Visit Association of Builders And Developers Website
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