Islamabad, Apr 17, 2025: A leading Chinese construction conglomerate has shown strong interest in investing in Pakistan’s maritime industry, particularly in seawater desalination projects.
The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) is backing the venture, which is expected to begin with the development of a desalination plant at key port areas.
The firm is actively assessing investment prospects at Gwadar, Karachi Port, and especially Port Qasim—where the installation of a large-scale desalination facility is under consideration.
This plant would transform seawater into clean drinking water, helping supply both residential communities and industrial operations in the surrounding areas.
Sources close to the matter reveal that the Chinese enterprise has pledged full cooperation in combating Pakistan’s increasing water scarcity issues through the implementation of advanced desalination technology.
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Engineers designed the plant not only to ensure water supply at the ports but also to benefit nearby cities by reducing freshwater shortages.
According to an insider involved in the discussions, “This initiative is aligned with Pakistan’s climate resilience strategies and environmental sustainability roadmap.
It’s a practical solution for securing coastal water resources and promoting long-term maritime progress.”
In addition to the water treatment focus, the broader partnership may include enhancements to port logistics and maritime tourism facilities.
Company officials from China have reportedly expressed their intent to deepen ties with Pakistan’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs for future projects. Their interest underscores the importance of Pakistan’s 1,050-kilometer-long coastline and its trio of vital commercial ports.
The SIFC continues to play a central role in coordinating between government bodies and foreign investors, making the investment process more transparent and efficient.
Their involvement has accelerated negotiations and cleared pathways for upcoming collaborations.
Industry analysts believe that such foreign partnerships can help modernize Pakistan’s maritime operations, increasing cargo handling capacities while ensuring environmental care through sustainable infrastructure upgrades.
The SIFC is facilitating this proposed desalination venture as part of a larger wave of potential Chinese investments that extend beyond the traditional boundaries of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
These moves aim to strengthen bilateral trade, promote technological exchange, and secure Pakistan’s maritime future
