ISLAMABAD: Investment and Privatization Minister Abdul Aleem Khan reiterated the government’s commitment to facilitate the entry of Chinese investors into special economic zones in Pakistan, stressing the immediate resolution of issues related to land sale and transfer.
While chairing a meeting on SEZ policy in Lahore, the minister instructed the Board of Investment to coordinate with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government and other relevant institutions to expedite work on the industrial zones. He also called for the inclusion of Chinese diplomats in the next meeting to address concerns collaboratively.
The meeting specifically discussed resolving the long-pending issues faced by the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC).
Participants were briefed on the policy framework for special economic zones, including tax exemptions, import duty exemptions and other incentives. The Minister assured Chinese stakeholders that the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, is fully aware of these challenges and is committed to correcting past shortcomings.
Senior officials, including the State Bank Governor, Secretary General of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and CRBC directors, provided updates on unresolved issues related to the SEZs. These include cases relating to Nebra, regional authorities and the International Investment Board, many of which have been pending for five years.
Under the minister’s directives, these concerns are now being accelerated, as he described the meeting as a “breakthrough” for the development of SEZs.
To ensure progress, the Minister instructed the electricity authorities in Peshawar to activate network connections to industrial areas within three days. He also directed the Governor of the Central Bank to appoint a focal person to address investors’ concerns efficiently.
“We are fully committed to resolving the complexities and challenges faced by investors,” Mr. Khan said. “Ensuring the provision of electricity and infrastructure to industrial areas is our top priority.”
This renewed focus on SEZs comes as Pakistan seeks to attract foreign direct investment, especially from China, under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. The government aims to position the SEZs as a key driver of economic growth and industrialization.