Project Objective
The objective of this project is to create a backup port industry for Gwadar Port, enhancing its capacity and providing a dedicated industrial zone for various economic activities.
Project Description
Currently, a designated area has been allocated as the free zone for Gwadar, with specific land parcels already earmarked or acquired for development. The breakdown of the allocated area is as follows:
- Gwadar Port Free Zone: 2,281 acres
The project involves developing essential infrastructure to support this industrial zone, including:
- Access Roads & Internal Roads: For efficient connectivity within the zone.
- Utilities: Provision of water, gas, and power supply.
- Customs Facilities: To streamline import/export processes.
- Security & Fencing: Ensuring safety and regulated access.
- Warehouses, Offices, & Allied Infrastructure: Supporting storage, administrative, and logistical needs.
Proposing Agency
- Gwadar Port Authority, Ministry of Maritime Affairs (MoMA)
Location
- Gwadar District, Balochistan
Province
- Balochistan, Pakistan
Estimated Cost
- $300 Million USD
Executing Company / Sponsors
- Gwadar Port Authority
Supervising Agency
- Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Government of Pakistan
Employment Impact
- Total Jobs Created: 120
- Total Local Jobs Created: 240
Project Progress Update
- Tax Exemptions: Tax incentives for businesses operating in the port and free zone were included in the Finance Act of 2020, encouraging investment.
- 1st Phase Completion: The first phase covering 60 acres has been completed.
- Investment Activity: 46 enterprises have registered for investment in the Free Zone, demonstrating growing interest and economic potential.
- Production Initiation: 3 companies have started production activities in the Free Zone.
- Trade Milestone: The first imports and exports cargo, managed by M/s HKSUN, was received in the Gwadar Free Zone on April 7, 2021.
- 2nd Phase Development: Development of the second phase, encompassing 2,221 acres, began in July 2021, expanding the zone’s capacity significantly.
The Gwadar Port and Free Zone project is pivotal to boosting trade, industrialization, and economic growth in the region, leveraging strategic positioning and improved infrastructure.
