ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Maritime Affairs Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry on Thursday proposed a multi-tier logistics corridor linking China to Africa through Pakistan’s southwestern Gwadar city, his ministry said in a statement, as Islamabad pushes to establish itself as a transit trade hub to increase regional trade.

Pakistan has increasingly sought to establish itself as a transit trade hub for Central Asian landlocked states and other countries to connect them to markets around the world and earn valuable transit fees.

During his visit to Beijing, Chaudhry met representatives of the Chinese shipping and logistics hub, Tianjin Dongjiang Comprehensive Free Trade Zone. The maritime affairs ministry said discussions revolved around ship financing and leasing opportunities.

“Chaudhry invited Dongjiang firms to invest in bonded warehouses, cold chain facilities and bulk cargo handling in Gwadar, and proposed developing a China–Gwadar–Africa logistics corridor,” the maritime affairs ministry said.

“He also called for training programs for Pakistani free zone managers and customs officials and requested an investment delegation from Dongjiang to visit Gwadar in 2025.”

In another meeting, Chaudhry assured the Shandong Xinxu Group Corporation of support in securing approvals for an Integrated Maritime Industrial Complex in Pakistan.

The minister invited Shandong to pursue joint ventures with the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) for fleet expansion, including new builds, leasing, or feeder services linked to the port city of Gwadar.

Pakistan’s recent push to enhance regional trade is part of the country’s efforts to achieve long-term economic growth through increased connectivity and trade.

Islamabad views foreign trade and investment as key to escaping a prolonged macroeconomic crisis that has put a strain on its fragile economy.