Sindh Government’s Push for Special Economic Zones to Attract Chinese Investment: Nasir Shah

Sindh government is actively working on the development of two special economic zones in Karachi, aiming to facilitate Chinese investors in setting up industries in collaboration with local businessmen. This initiative was shared by Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, Provincial Minister for Energy, Planning, and Development, during his speech as the chief guest at the 10th Beauty, Fitness, and Consumer Health International Expo at the Expo Centre Karachi.

Shah highlighted that Karachi, as the commercial hub of Pakistan, is becoming a major destination for industries, especially with the shifting global trade dynamics concerning China. With several countries planning to reduce direct imports from China, Pakistan stands to benefit by serving as an intermediary for Chinese products, making it a preferred destination for trade and investment.

The provincial minister urged Pakistani businessmen to forge partnerships with Chinese counterparts to leverage emerging trade opportunities and promote the “Made-in-Pakistan” brand to enhance exports. He further outlined that the Sindh government is working closely with industrial zones in Karachi, improving their infrastructure and providing them with financial and administrative autonomy for sustainable development.

Additionally, Nasir Hussain Shah spoke about the province’s advancements in energy, specifically the approval of a remarkably low tariff of 3.5 cents per unit for a planned solar park, aimed at providing affordable electricity to Karachi and Sindh in phases. The provincial government is also focusing on empowering local governments in Sindh to deliver better services to the public, with a bill expected to pass soon in the provincial assembly to enhance local governance.

At the expo, Muhammad Uzair Nizam, Executive Director of Ecommerce Gateway, highlighted the growing global interest in Pakistan, as reflected in the participation of foreign and local delegates. He noted that industries like beauty, fitness, and consumer health are emerging as key sectors, offering significant investment and employment opportunities.

The exhibition, which features over 2,000 renowned brands from countries including the USA, China, Korea, Iran, Turkey, and Indonesia, is expected to attract 40,000 visitors and generate $20 million in revenue through various business and tourism-related activities.