| Islamabad: The Federal Cabinet has directed that 60% of public sector imports, including wheat, fertilizer, and sugar, be routed through Gwadar Port, according to a news source on September 30.
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As per the details, this decision builds on previous Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) orders, with a committee formed to oversee implementation. Chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the Cabinet meeting emphasised prioritising imports through Gwadar. The committee will review procurement plans, explore additional goods for import, and assess necessary road and rail infrastructure for efficient transport to and from the port.
Efforts to boost Gwadar’s competitiveness include negotiations with its operator, China Overseas Port Holding Company Limited (COPHCL), to reduce port charges, which are already 50% lower than Karachi’s.
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The Cabinet has instructed public sector entities to align procurement plans with this policy, ensuring 60% of imports are handled through Gwadar. |
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