PCJCCI supports inclusion of KCCDZ project in CPEC

Islamabad: The Pakistan-China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI) on Tuesday afternoon voiced strong support for the inclusion of the Karachi Coastal Comprehensive Development Zone (KCCDZ) project within the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

This strategic move is expected to significantly boost Pakistan’s economy while fostering enhanced industrial and development cooperation between the two nations.

PCJCCI President Moazzam Ghurki, speaking at a recent think-tank session held at the PCJCCI Secretariat, emphasized the transformative impact of the KCCDZ project.

Envisioned to cover a sprawling 930 hectares, with 640 hectares reclaimed, the environment-friendly project aims to establish four new berths for the Karachi Port Trust (KPT).

Ghurki highlighted the project’s substantial USD 3.5 billion investment, which will include a state-of-the-art fishing port and a world-class fisheries export processing zone. These developments are poised to elevate Pakistan’s trade potential on the global stage.

Senior Vice President Fang Yulong of PCJCCI echoed these sentiments, describing the KCCDZ project as a game-changer for Pakistan. Anticipated to bring Karachi on par with developed port cities worldwide, the project holds promise for investors while also focusing on environmental conservation and socio-economic development. Yulong emphasized the project’s role in attracting foreign direct investment, generating employment opportunities, boosting exports, and fostering regional and global connectivity.

Vice President Hamza Khalid highlighted the strategic importance of the KCCDZ, emphasizing its alignment with modern technologies, urban infrastructure, and environmentally sustainable marine development. Khalid underscored the project’s potential to usher in a new era of prosperity for Pakistan by creating a conducive environment for business growth and development.

Chairman of the PCJCCI Standing Committee on HR and Finance, Col. Ashraf Rana, emphasized the project’s potential to drive Pakistan’s blue economy and exports. Rana highlighted the critical role of fishing ports and fisheries export processing zones in boosting the country’s maritime trade and promoting industrial cooperation in the sector.

Secretary General Salahuddin Hanif highlighted the social impact of the KCCDZ project, particularly its focus on low-budget housing for poverty-stricken fishermen. By enhancing their socio-economic profile, the project aims to uplift marginalized communities and contribute to Pakistan’s sustainable development goals.