Sindh government launches Dhabeji SEZ to boost economy and jobs

On Saturday, the Sindh government unveiled plans for a new Special Economic Zone (SEZ) as part of the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), marking a significant step towards transforming the region’s economic landscape. The announcement came after the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with support from Chinese authorities, with expectations to attract $3 billion in investment and create over 100,000 jobs.

The Dhabeji Special Economic Zone (SEZ) will be developed under a public-private partnership by the Sindh administration. Strategically located near Karachi’s ports, the zone will serve as a vital industrial hub, offering direct connectivity to regional trade routes. This positioning aims to enhance Pakistan’s industrial capacity and provide a gateway for increased exports.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah expressed his confidence in the project, describing the Dhabeji SEZ as a game-changer for Pakistan’s economy. “The Dhabeji SEZ is poised to significantly alter the economic framework of Pakistan,” he stated. ” “It will drive industrial growth, reduce reliance on imports, and pave the way for a self-sustaining economy.”

The second phase of CPEC, which focuses on industrial development, is designed to complement the infrastructure and energy projects introduced during the first phase of the corridor. The creation of such economic zones is expected to foster closer industrial collaboration between China and Pakistan, further boosting the bilateral trade relationship

Syed Qassim Naveed Qamar, Special Assistant to the CM on Investment, highlighted the SEZ’s potential to foster job creation and promote value-added industries. “The establishment of this SEZ is projected to generate more than 100,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities, enhance value-added industries, and facilitate skills development within local communities,” he stated.

The MoU signing ceremony was attended by members of the Sindh Cabinet, senior government officials, and other dignitaries, marking a crucial milestone for the development of the Dhabeji SEZ.