Ahmed Khan Malik

The Sindh government plans to expedite the development work on Dhabeji Special Economic Zone (DSEZ) in Thatta to promote industrialisation in the province. 

The government has allocated 1,530 acres of land for the zone to facilitate potential investors from China and other countries to either start new enterprises or relocate existing ones. 

“The location of this economic zone has many advantages,” Murtaza Javed, Director of the Industrial Promotion Cell, told WealthPK. He explained that its proximity to Port Qasim allows for efficient import of raw materials and export of finished goods, reducing inland transportation costs and saving time. "It’s also conveniently located 35km from Karachi Airport via the National Highway, facilitating safe travel for foreign workers and management personnel, while providing access to the National Trade Corridor for transporting goods to upcountry and the central Asian countries," he added. Javed noted that DSEZ would be developed as a modern enclave with infrastructure designed for expatriates, alongside a tax incentive package that includes exemptions from customs duties and taxes on the import of plants and machinery.

He mentioned that relevant departments have been directed to expedite work on the project, as the government is committed to completing it swiftly. Hussain Sharif, a consultant with the Sindh Investment Wing, also told WealthPK that the economic zone would be well-connected by road and rail, facilitating the transport of goods and materials. "The zone will accommodate a variety of industries, from light to heavy manufacturing. It will also offer warehouse and logistics facilities, as well as commercial and residential plots for those interested in living or doing business in the area." "A budget of Rs878.5 million has been allocated to ensure a continuous water supply to the zone through the construction of a pumping station," he added.

Additionally, Sharif said a Memorandum of Understanding had been signed with Sui Southern Gas Company for the provision of gas to the zone. He also mentioned plans for a 250MW grid station, to be connected to the National Transmission and Dispatch Company, to supply electricity to the zone. "The cost of building this grid station is estimated at around Rs6.15 billion," Sharif said, noting that these measures are intended to provide essential utilities to support the zone’s development and operations. Sharif concluded that the economic zone is expected to attract significant investment, projected at around $5 billion, and create approximately 100,000 jobs.

Credit: INP-WealthPk