Islamabad, 3 September 2024 (TDI): The federal government has decided to activate free economic zones across the country to fast-track industrialization and boost economic growth.
Federal Minister for Investment, Privatization, and Communications Abdul Aleem Khan chaired an important briefing session in Karachi to discuss the activation of “Free Economic Zones” across the country.
The session aimed to speed up the industrialization process in all free industrial zones, with 26 zones in different cities.
The minister emphasized the need for practical and solid actions, not just talks, for industrial development. He directed relevant departments to take immediate action where there is a delay, stressing that swift industrial development is possible in these zones.
وفاقی وزیر بورڈ آف انوسٹمنٹ، نجکاری و مواصلات عبدالعلیم خان کی زیر صدارت اہم بریفنگ اجلاس ،ملک بھر کے “فری اکنامک زونز” کو فعال کرنے کا فیصلہ
1/2 pic.twitter.com/nSIotAdDHI— Istehkam-E-Pakistan Party (@istehkamPK) September 3, 2024
The session also discussed the current situation of industrial zones in various cities, including Karachi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Peshawar, Khairpur, Kasur, and others.
The minister directed the Board of Investment to bring about swift bureaucratic reforms for “Special Economic Zones” and to identify immediate actions and an action plan for other departments linked with industrial zones.
The minister also suggested that the Ben Qasim Industrial Park could be used to accommodate industries shifting from China. He directed the Board of Investment to prepare a report on the actual situation of all industrial zones and to take immediate action on long-pending projects.
The minister directed the Board of Investment to deliver practical results within a month, emphasizing that speed is essential for industrial development.