ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Customs has facilitated the clearance of the first import cum export consignment at Gwadar port under China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

An official announcement said the cleared consignment by M/s HK Sun Corporation will be further processed in Gwadar Free Zone established under CPEC and later on items will be exported from Pakistan.

The first consignment consisting of metal scrap was processed and cleared by the Model Customs Collectorate, (A&F) West, Karachi and goods reached Gwadar Free Zone regulated by Model Customs Collectorate Gwadar.

More shipments of raw material of the same company are under way to Pakistan which will be further used in manufacturing of goods to be exported.

M/s HK Sun Corporation is the first enterprise which has started manufacturing and processing activity in the free zone followed by other investors to contribute to the development of first ever free zone of country established in Gwadar Baluchistan under CPEC.

According to the concession agreement signed between China Overseas Ports Holding Company (COPHC) and Gwadar Port Authority (GPA), the development and operation of Gwadar free zone is being performed by COPHC. The planned development period is from 2015 to 2030, which is divided into four phases.

With import of the current consignment, the Gwadar Free Zone has practically become operational leading to the development of other economic zones under CPEC in Pakistan.

The free zone will integrate and strengthen the linkage of industries between China and Pakistan.

The free zone is positioned as economic development engine of Gwadar aiming to transform international trade logistics hub under CPEC.

The project will create employment opportunities for local population; and will play a role of catalyst for economic growth and development of country.

Published in Dawn, April 8th, 2021