LAHORE: Pakistani and Chinese officials visited $200 million Special Economic Zone (SEZ) project on Lahore-Kasur road, promising jobs, increased exports and new investment amid strengthening of bilateral economic cooperation.

Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi, Provincial Minister for Industries and Commerce Chaudhry Shafay Hussain, along with Chinese investors visited the under-construction SEZ to review ongoing development work.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Shafay said the first phase of the project, backed by $200m Chinese investment, is expected to be completed next year and will generate around 8,000 jobs.

He added that the government is extending full support to the Chinese investors, encouraging more companies to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan.

He also said that a Chinese mobile phone manufacturing company is planning to establish a production plant in the country.

During the visit, a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also signed between a Chinese investment firm and the Punjab government. The agreement was signed by Madam Liu, Director of the Chinese company, and Mr Shafay.

Published in Dawn, May 11th, 2026