Unlocking Opportunities: Exploring Pakistan's Dynamic Investment Landscape with Chinese Firms
Pakistan's Ambassador to China, Moin ul Haque, recently shared insights on Pakistan's burgeoning investment landscape with Chinese corporations. He urged them to capitalize on the enticing incentives available through the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) framework and consider Pakistan as their prime investment and business destination.
Haque emphasized the exceptional treatment accorded to Chinese investors and entrepreneurs in Pakistan, highlighting the warm welcome extended to them to bolster economic collaboration between the two nations. He voiced the increased emphasis on trade, investments, industry, and agriculture cooperation in recent times, underscoring the comprehensive partnership between both countries.
Notably, Pakistan stands as China's foremost trading partner and a significant source of foreign direct investments. The second phase of the Free Trade Agreement, initiated in early 2020, has expanded access to each other's markets, fostering record-breaking bilateral trade.
Haque spotlighted Pakistan's youthful and highly skilled population as a driving force for nation-building and a dynamic labor market. He encouraged Chinese companies to leverage Pakistan's strategic geographical location, as it shares borders with China and enjoys proximity to South Asia, West Asia, and Central Asia.
Expressing his delight at the substantial Chinese corporate presence at the forum, Haque assured ongoing facilitation by both nations' departments to enhance trade and industrial cooperation. He also expressed appreciation to UBL for hosting the event.
During the forum, Zhang Baozhong, Chairman of China Overseas Port Holding, provided updates on key projects in Gwadar, including the Gwadar Port, Special Economic Zone, and Gwadar Airport. He highlighted the numerous advantages offered to both foreign and local traders at the port, such as no demurrage charges, cargo security, speedy customs clearance, and free container storage for three months.
Baozhong encouraged Chinese enterprises to seize opportunities and invest in special economic zones and other projects in the region.
Naeem Iqbal Cheema, Head of Chancery, outlined the benefits available to Chinese companies and investors under the CPEC flagship project. He emphasized the strong leadership support and streamlined financing available for projects within this framework.
Ghulam Qadar, the Commercial Counselor, elaborated on the incentives and facilities accessible to Chinese investors and traders in Pakistan under the CPEC.
Falak Sher Zaman, Chief Representative of United Bank Limited (UBL) in China, underscored the bank's commitment to facilitating Chinese firms in promoting trade and investment between the two countries.
This informative forum was jointly organized by the Embassy of Pakistan, United Bank Limited (UBL), Beijing Innovation Alliance (BJIA), and the Economic and Commercial Counselors Alliance in China.