The Sindh government plans to establish new industrial zones across the province, especially in Karachi, as part of a new industrialization policy. The aim is to attract local and foreign investors and boost economic activities. Potential locations being considered include Port Qasim area.
The provincial minister for industries, Jam Ikramullah Dharejo, stated they will allocate funds in the development budget to improve infrastructure across the seven existing industrial zones in Karachi to facilitate current industrialists.
The government intends to introduce a one-window operation to quickly resolve issues faced by industrialists. Other provincial departments have been directed to facilitate rather than hinder industrial activities.
Efforts are underway with the federal government to ensure adequate natural gas and electricity supplies to Sindh’s residents and industries as per constitutional rights.
A public-private partnership model may be adopted to set up combined effluent treatment plants in industrial areas as required by export markets.
However, concerns were raised about limited industrial land availability in Karachi hindering new units. An affordable financing scheme was suggested for industrialists lacking capital to expand operations on their owned lands.
Chinese investors show interest but are reluctant due to Karachi’s lack of facilities, dilapidated infrastructure and security issues. Some Sindh companies are considering relocating to Punjab due to better availability of land, water and infrastructure there.
Establishing an industrial belt from Karachi outskirts to other major Sindh cities was proposed to cater to industrial activities province-wide and ensure infrastructure and utilities for investors.
