Sindh to develop SEZs to facilitate Chinese investors

Provincial minister highlights trade opportunities at Karachi expo which is expected to generate $20m


Our Correspondent December 15, 2024

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KARACHI:

The Sindh government is developing two special economic zones in Karachi to facilitate Chinese investors in setting up various industries in collaboration with local businessmen, said Provincial Minister for Energy, Planning, and Development Syed Nasir Hussain Shah.

Speaking at the 10th Beauty, Fitness, and Consumer Health International Expo at Expo Centre Karachi, Shah highlighted that Karachi's role as Pakistan's commercial hub is growing due to shifts in global trade policies affecting China. With many countries planning to end direct imports from China, Pakistani businessmen could benefit by positioning the country as a key intermediary for Chinese products under the "Made-in-Pakistan" brand.

The minister urged local entrepreneurs to partner with Chinese counterparts to attract investment in various sectors and enhance exports under the "Made-in-Pakistan" brand. He highlighted the Sindh government's efforts to upgrade industrial zones in Karachi, granting them financial and administrative autonomy to sustain growth.

Shah also pointed out Sindh's achievements in the energy sector, including a remarkably low tariff of 3.5 cents per unit for the upcoming solar park, which aims to provide affordable electricity to residents of Karachi and Sindh in phases. Additionally, the provincial government is working to strengthen local governance, with a bill expected soon to enhance the role of municipal bodies.

The four-day exhibition, featuring over 2,000 renowned brands and 350 companies from countries including the USA, China, Korea, Iran, Turkey, and Indonesia, has attracted significant international interest.

Executive Director of Ecommerce Gateway Muhammad Uzair Nizam noted that the participation of foreign and local delegates underscores Pakistan's positive image on the global stage, fostering opportunities for trade, investment, and tourism.

He also said that business and economic activities are shifting from traditional sectors to emerging industries like beauty, fitness, and consumer health, which are opening up substantial opportunities for investment and employment both globally and locally.

The expo is expected to draw 40,000 visitors and generate $20 million in revenue through service exports, B2B deals, sponsorships, and tourism activities. It also serves as a platform to showcase emerging industries such as beauty, fitness, and consumer health, which are creating new avenues for investment and employment in Pakistan.

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