ISLAMABAD: Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal directed the preparation of marketing templates and packages aimed at showcasing the cost-effective trade routes and potential incentives for international businesses using Gwadar Port.

This instruction came during a high-level meeting held in Islamabad on Wednesday, focusing on the operationalization of Gwadar Port.  The meeting saw the participation of senior officials from various key ministries, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Communications, Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Petroleum, and other relevant departments. Representatives from foreign embassies also participated through video link. During the meeting, Minister Iqbal emphasized the strategic significance of Gwadar Port as "one of Pakistan's most valuable assets." He highlighted that Gwadar provides the shortest trade route to Gulf and Central Asian countries, including Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. The minister stressed that the port has immense potential to become a key regional transshipment hub, connecting multiple global markets efficiently. Iqbal specifically called for the development of marketing templates and packages that would highlight Gwadar's cost-effective trade routes, along with the potential incentives for international businesses operating through the port. He suggested that these promotional materials be distributed through Pakistan's embassies and missions worldwide to ensure global exposure for Gwadar Port.

The minister also pointed out the lack of commercial analysis and a comprehensive operational plan for Gwadar, urging for immediate efforts to unlock its full potential. He set a target for a robust action plan within six months to generate trade traffic through the port, emphasizing that such an initiative would create job opportunities for local residents and boost the regional economy. Furthermore, Minister Iqbal instructed the Balochistan Mining Department to develop proposals aimed at exporting finished white marble, rather than raw materials, to maximize the value of Pakistan's mineral exports.  In line with Gwadar's development, he also urged the National Logistics Cell (NLC) to conduct a detailed cost analysis for transshipment routes, focusing on competitive pricing and viable logistics solutions to attract international trade. Minister Iqbal also called for efforts to facilitate trade between Gulf countries and China via Gwadar, presenting the port as the "most economical and efficient route for imports and exports." He emphasized that the port offers the cheapest shipping options and must be marketed aggressively to the international community. The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to work collaboratively toward making Gwadar a thriving regional trade hub, in line with Pakistan's broader economic goals.