Sindh to develop economic zones for Chinese companies, minister says

KARACHI: The Sindh government is developing two special economic zones in Karachi to facilitate Chinese investors in establishing various industries in collaboration with local businesses, Provincial Minister for Energy, Planning, and Development Syed Nasir Hussain Shah announced on Saturday.

Speaking as chief guest at the 10th Beauty, Fitness, and Consumer Health International Expo at Expo Centre Karachi, the minister said that numerous industries are being established in Karachi, the country’s commercial hub, primarily due to shifts in global trade policies for China.

Many countries are planning to curtail direct imports from China. However, Chinese products may still enter these markets indirectly through other nations, particularly Pakistan, which is poised to become a preferred destination for importers and exporters under the evolving trade landscape. Shah urged Pakistani businesses to collaborate with their Chinese counterparts to attract investment in diverse sectors and enhance exports under the ‘Made-in-Pakistan’ brand.

He further added that the Sindh government is actively working with various industrial zones in Karachi to improve their infrastructure according to specific plans and requirements. These zones have been granted financial and administrative autonomy to ensure their sustainable development.

Highlighting the province’s achievements in energy, Shah noted that the government had achieved a significant milestone in power generation. A remarkably low tariff of 3.5 cents per unit has been approved for the planned solar park, which will provide affordable electricity in phases.

The provincial government is also striving to further empower local governments in Sindh to provide relief to people. A bill addressing this is expected to be passed in the provincial assembly on the directives of the party leadership, he added.

The minister observed that the participation of foreign delegates in the four-day exhibition reflects positive developments in the country, particularly with the influx of foreign investments.

More than 2,000 renowned brands and 350 companies from seven countries, including the US, China, Korea, Iran, Turkey and Indonesia, are participating in the expo. The exhibition is expected to attract 40,000 visitors and generate $20 million in revenue through service exports, B2B deals, sponsorships and tourism-related activities.