The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has voiced strong optimism regarding the upcoming visit of the Chinese Prime Minister, viewing it as a pivotal moment to enhance Pakistan's economic prospects. LCCI President Mian Abuzar Shad, along with Senior Vice President Engineer Khalid Usman and Vice President Shahid Nazir Chaudhry, noted that this visit represents a significant opportunity to attract increased Chinese investment.
The leadership expressed expectations for a surge in investments across crucial sectors, including energy, technology, infrastructure, and manufacturing. They emphasized that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has already established a robust foundation, and this visit will further enhance trade relations and foster new partnerships.
The officials pointed out the importance of collaboration between Pakistan and China, particularly in supporting local industries and improving the trade balance by enhancing exports. The role of Chinese investment in advancing Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Pakistan was also highlighted, as it is essential for modernizing these businesses and boosting their competitiveness globally.
Lahore's status as an industrial and commercial center positions it as an ideal venue for Chinese enterprises to explore opportunities, particularly in textiles, construction, and IT. The LCCI leadership is eager to facilitate Chinese businesses by providing market insights and practical support for establishing joint ventures. This visit is expected to create new avenues for cooperation in renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and agribusiness.
Additionally, the officials underscored the significance of this high-profile visit in reinforcing CPEC’s role as a game-changer for Pakistan’s economy. The potential for further collaboration under CPEC is seen as critical for enhancing the nation’s infrastructure and energy sectors, which are vital for industrial development.
The LCCI's leadership reiterated the necessity for more initiatives focused on technology transfer and innovation between Pakistan and China, aiming to leverage China’s advanced expertise to benefit local industries.