KARACHI: China’s Xinning Enterprise signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with the Gwadar Port Authority (GPA) on Tuesday, marking a significant step towards stimulating industrial and commercial investments at Gwadar Port and its Free Zone.

The LoI, signed by Yi Jiang, representing Xinning Enterprise, outlines plans for a range of ventures aimed at bolstering the port’s economic growth. The document was received by Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs Umer Zaffar Shaikh on behalf of GPA Chairman Noor-ul-Haq Baloch, who joined the event virtually through Zoom.

According to a press release, the initiatives under this partnership include the development of Gwadar Port as a regional transshipment centre, the introduction of new industrial projects, the optimisation of existing facilities within the Gwadar Free Zone, and the relocation of industries to the area.

The Chinese business delegation, led by Mr Jiang, who also serves as the Director of the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce (ACFIC), met with Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry to explore ways to enhance the performance of Gwadar Port.

The minister underscored the growing importance of Gwadar as a key regional hub for trade and economic activity. He lauded the partnership as a significant milestone in reinforcing Gwadar’s strategic role and highlighted Xinning Enterprise’s potential to increase the port’s throughput, attract foreign investment, and contribute to the broader economic development of the region.

Both parties are committed to ensuring that the development of Gwadar Port and its Free Zone will operate within Pakistan’s legal and regulatory framework. They also agreed to continue discussions in good faith to identify investment opportunities, finalise operational details, and establish mechanisms for ongoing cooperation.

Minister Chaudhry reiterated the government’s commitment to transforming Gwadar into a global maritime gateway and industrial power-

house, emphasising that collaborations with reputable international enterprises like Xinning Enterprise will accelerate Pakistan’s maritime and economic goals.

Published in Dawn, August 6th, 2025