The Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QCCI) urged immediate policy measures to fully harness the growing strategic and commercial significance of Gwadar Port, amid increasing interest from regional and international markets, particularly those linked with China-connected trade routes, Gwadar Pro reported on Tuesday.

Speaking at a business consultation held via video link in Islamabad, QCCI President Haji Muhammad Ayub Miryani highlighted that Gwadar’s importance has increased significantly due to recent regional developments and expanding trade prospects across the Gulf, Central Asia, and neighbouring markets.

He stressed that Pakistan must move quickly to capitalize on emerging opportunities in Balochistan by improving logistics infrastructure, expanding trade facilitation mechanisms, and enhancing operational efficiency at key commercial corridors.

Among key proposals, he called for the immediate launch of a ferry service from Gwadar to strengthen maritime connectivity and stimulate both domestic and international trade flows.

He also recommended extending operational hours of the N-250 Ramdan-Gwadar business corridor from 18 to 24 hours to ensure uninterrupted commercial activity.

The QCCI president advocated for granting Gwadar membership in the TIR international transport system to streamline cross-border logistics, alongside expanded facilitation for Afghan transit trade and transshipment opportunities for regional investors, including those from Iran.

He noted growing commercial interest from Gulf and Central Asian markets, with several companies already engaging with local business stakeholders regarding potential investments and trade routes through Gwadar, reinforcing its emerging role as a regional trade hub.

The meeting was presided over by Federal Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China