China's Xinning Enterprise has signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with the Gwadar Port Authority (GPA) to launch major industrial and commercial ventures at Gwadar Port and its Free Zone, marking a key step in enhancing Gwadar's role as a regional trade and economic hub.
According to an official statement, the LoI was signed Tuesday by Yi Jiang, representing Xinning Enterprise, and received by Umer Zaffar Shaikh, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, on behalf of GPA Chairman Noorul Haq Baloch, who joined the event via Zoom.
The proposed projects include developing Gwadar as a regional transshipment centre, launching industrial initiatives, relocating industries, and upgrading Free Zone facilities. The statement said these efforts are part of a broader push to attract foreign investment and boost port performance.
The statement adds that the Chinese business delegation, led by Yi Jiang, who is also a Director of the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce (ACFIC), also held a meeting with Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry.
The minister praised the agreement as a milestone that strengthens Gwadar's strategic importance. He said Xinning Enterprise's involvement could significantly improve port throughput, stimulate investment, and drive regional economic growth. Both parties agreed to work within Pakistan's regulatory framework and continue discussions to identify specific investment opportunities, finalise operational details, and establish mechanisms for cooperation.
The maritime minister reiterated the government's resolve to make Gwadar a global maritime gateway and industrial hub, adding that partnerships with reputable global enterprises will help realise Pakistan's maritime and economic goals.
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