Pakistan’s Economic Plans Align with CPEC Goals, PCJCCI Reports

Lahore: Nazir Hussain, President of the Pakistan China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI), commended the government’s recent release of the Pakistan Economic Survey 2024-25 and Budget 2026. He stated these initiatives demonstrate Pakistan’s dedication to economic stability, investment, and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Hussain highlighted CPEC’s transformative impact on infrastructure, trade, and job creation, citing projects in road, port, energy, and urban sectors. He noted the completion of major infrastructure projects like the Multan-Sukkur and Hakla-D.I. Khan motorways and the New Gwadar International Airport, which enhance logistics and open new trade routes.

Brig. Mansoor Saeed Sheikh (Retd), Senior Vice President of PCJCCI, acknowledged over $250 million in investments in Gwadar’s Port and Free Zone by China Overseas Ports Holding Company Limited (COPHCL). With incentives such as a 23-year tax holiday and full foreign ownership, Gwadar is emerging as a strategic commercial hub.

Zafar Iqbal, Vice President PCJCCI, pointed out significant funding allocations in Budget 2026 for ongoing and new CPEC projects under the Public Sector Development Programme. He mentioned infrastructure development in Gwadar and the East Bay Expressway’s second phase, along with social infrastructure achievements such as a desalination plant and digital connectivity improvements.

Salahuddin Hanif, Secretary General, noted macroeconomic stabilization signs, with inflation at 4.6% and GDP growth at 2.7%. These figures encourage investor confidence, and Chinese businesses are showing renewed interest. The next CPEC phase will emphasize job creation, industrial development, and local empowerment.

The PCJCCI reaffirmed its commitment to fostering bilateral trade and supporting government development goals under CPEC and Budget 2026, viewing CPEC as a symbol of long-term cooperation and shared prosperity.