Anjum Nisar says Pak faces long-standing challenges to achieve sustainable industrial growth

KARACHI, APR 27 /DNA/ – The Businessmen Panel (BMP) of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) emphasizes that relocating Chinese industries to Gwadar is a crucial strategy for accelerating Pakistan’s economic growth and ensuring the successful implementation of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). This move is pivotal in driving industrialization, creating job opportunities, and strengthening Pakistan’s position in the global trade network.

FPCCI former president and BMP Chairman Mian Anjum Nisar explained that Pakistan has faced long-standing challenges in achieving sustainable industrial growth. The country’s manufacturing sector has often struggled due to insufficient infrastructure, energy shortages, and a lack of modern technological advancements. However, the planned relocation of Chinese industries presents an invaluable opportunity to address these issues and accelerate the process of industrialization.

“The relocation of Chinese industries to Gwadar offers a chance for Pakistan to harness advanced manufacturing technologies, increase its industrial output, and improve technological capabilities,” said Mian Anjum Nisar. “By doing so, Pakistan will not only address its industrial challenges but will also enhance its global competitiveness. Moreover, this move will create thousands of jobs, reduce unemployment, and improve living standards for Pakistan’s local population.”

The strategic importance of Gwadar as the centerpiece of the CPEC project cannot be overstated. Gwadar, with its deep-sea port, is ideally positioned to become a global gateway for trade and commerce, linking Pakistan to international markets. As part of CPEC, Gwadar will serve as an essential conduit for the movement of goods, making it an attractive location for relocating industries. However, for this vision to materialize, swift and decisive government action is needed to create a conducive environment for Chinese industries to relocate to the region.

The BMP calls on the government to prioritize the acceleration of key infrastructure development projects in Gwadar, particularly transportation networks and energy supply. Infrastructure projects such as the Eastbay Expressway, which will enhance connectivity between Gwadar Port and the rest of Pakistan, and the Gwadar International Airport, which will provide air transport facilities for goods and people, are essential to facilitate industrial growth in the region.

“To ensure that Gwadar becomes a thriving industrial hub, the government must also focus on ensuring a consistent and reliable energy supply. Without a stable power infrastructure, industrial zones in Gwadar will face serious challenges, potentially impeding their growth and profitability,” Mian Anjum Nisar stated.

Additionally, the BMP suggests that the government take further steps to simplify regulatory processes, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and offer incentives that will attract foreign investment. Creating a favorable business environment, with reduced red tape, will encourage Chinese industries to relocate to Gwadar and establish their manufacturing facilities there.

The government should also implement training and workforce development programs to ensure the local population benefits from these industrial developments. By investing in local human capital, the government can create a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of modern industries. These programs should focus on enhancing technical skills, vocational training, and management expertise to equip the local population with the necessary tools to succeed in the newly established industrial zones.

Chairman Mian Anjum Nisar further emphasized the importance of security in ensuring the success of the relocation plan. “For Gwadar to attract industries and investors, we must ensure a secure environment for both foreign and local workers. Enhanced security measures will help build investor confidence and encourage the relocation of Chinese industries,” he said.

Furthermore, the BMP stresses that the federal and provincial governments, regulatory bodies, and the private sector must collaborate closely to implement the relocation of Chinese industries to Gwadar. The BMP urges all stakeholders to take immediate action and work towards making Gwadar an industrial hub that serves as a model for the future of Pakistan’s economy.

“The relocation of Chinese industries to Gwadar represents a golden opportunity for Pakistan to transform its industrial sector and economy. If executed successfully, this initiative will not only boost Pakistan’s economy but will also help the country realize the full benefits of CPEC, turning Gwadar into an industrial powerhouse,” said Mian Anjum Nisar.

The BMP further underscores the importance of timely execution of this initiative. The potential benefits, including increased industrial output, technological advancement, job creation, and economic growth, will only be fully realized if the relocation process is carried out efficiently and without delay. The BMP is committed to offering its full support to facilitate this process and ensure its success.

“The timely and effective implementation of this initiative will have a transformative impact on Pakistan’s economic position. It will pave the way for the country to achieve the long-term objectives of CPEC and become a prominent player in global trade,” Mian Anjum Nisar concluded.

The FPCCI-BMP urges all concerned parties to work collaboratively and promptly to ensure that Gwadar becomes a thriving industrial hub that contributes significantly to Pakistan’s economic growth and long-term prosperity.