Ahad Cheema reviews performance-based land lease plan aimed at attracting export-oriented industries and accelerating industrial investment.
Karachi Industrial Park is moving closer to its planned early launch as the government works to finalise a land lease and incentive framework designed to attract export-oriented industries and increase industrial investment.
Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Establishment Division Senator Ahad Cheema reviewed the proposed framework on Thursday, stressing the need to accelerate development and ensure that industrial units can begin operations as soon as possible.
The proposed policy is expected to give priority to businesses focused on exports, with land allocation and incentives linked to clearly defined export commitments. The government aims to ensure that the industrial park directly contributes to Pakistan’s export growth and wider industrialisation objectives.
During the meeting, officials discussed different development and investment models, including a competitive land lease package tied to measurable export performance. The framework would particularly encourage industrial units that export more than 50 percent of their production.
Senator Ahad Cheema directed authorities to establish clear performance requirements for companies receiving concessions. He also called for provisions allowing incentives to be withdrawn and penalties imposed if agreed export commitments are not fulfilled.
The minister said the framework should promote productive use of land while maintaining accountability and preventing the misuse of government-provided incentives.
Officials informed the meeting that several industrialists had already shown interest in establishing export-oriented manufacturing units at the park. However, investors have sought suitable incentives and reliable infrastructure to support their operations.
Infrastructure development also remained a key focus of the discussion. The minister highlighted the importance of adequate water and gas supplies, along with improved road connectivity. The federal government will coordinate with the Sindh authorities regarding water availability and the proposed 11-kilometre access road.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Sui Southern Gas Company will also be engaged to address gas supply requirements for the industrial park.
Cheema further directed relevant federal institutions, including the Board of Investment, Special Investment Facilitation Council, and Ministry of Industries and Production, to extend support in resolving outstanding issues.
He said productive utilisation of the park’s land could help strengthen exports while also contributing towards efforts to address Pakistan Steel Mills’ outstanding liabilities.
The minister called for a commercially attractive and performance-based framework to ensure the Karachi Industrial Park remains viable and develops into a productive industrial hub.