ISLAMABAD, (TDI): Federal Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal on Tuesday reviewed progress on the development of Gwadar Port and the Free Zone.
The meeting held in Ahsan Iqbal with chair was attended by senior officials from various ministries and government departments.
Senior officials from various ministries provided updates, highlighting partial connectivity to Gwadar via the N-10 Coastal Highway and N-85, linking the city to Quetta. However, delays in completing key roads, including the M-8 motorway, were noted due to funding constraints.
Iqbal directed that the allocated funds for the M-8 be released in two installments this year and emphasized the urgency of fast-tracking infrastructure projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to enhance connectivity to Gwadar.
He also instructed officials to resolve land disputes related to the Gwadar Free Zone in line with agreements with the China Overseas Port Holding Company (COPHC).
Regarding Gwadar’s tax exemption policy, officials clarified that businesses in the Free Zone, including COPHC, benefit from tax holidays and incentives under the Finance Act. However, turnover taxes and import duties remain an issue.
Minister Iqbal confirmed that no turnover tax is applicable in Gwadar and called for clearing any ambiguities to make the region more attractive to investors.
Iqbal also reviewed ongoing infrastructure projects for basic services such as power, water, and sewage systems.
Also Read: New Gwadar Airport: Gateway to Global Connectivity
He directed Quetta Electric Supply Company (QESCO) to complete pending transmission lines within three months and submit weekly progress reports to the CPEC Secretariat.
The Minister further discussed the Gwadar Smart Port City Master Plan, noting significant progress since its 2005-06 formulation and formal approval in 2019.
He stressed the importance of initiating more public-private partnership (PPP) projects to boost Gwadar’s investment potential and suggested offering additional incentives to attract private sector involvement.
Also Read: Completion of CPEC Mega Projects reviewed
In closing, Iqbal highlighted the completion of Gwadar Airport and emphasized stimulating local economic activity, particularly in tourism.
He called for a comprehensive roadmap to implement the Gwadar Master Plan over the next three years to ensure balanced and sustainable growth for the city.
