A prominent Chinese construction firm has expressed interest in investing in Pakistan's maritime sector with facilitation from the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), focusing initially on water desalination technology at strategic port locations.
The company is exploring investment opportunities at Port Qasim, Karachi Port, and Gwadar, with particular emphasis on establishing a desalination plant at Port Qasim that would convert seawater into potable water for both industrial and domestic use.
Officials familiar with the discussions report that the Chinese firm has assured Pakistan of comprehensive support in addressing water scarcity challenges through the installation of desalination technology. The proposed facility would not only support port operations but also help meet the growing water demands of surrounding communities.
"This desalination project aligns with Pakistan's environmental policies and climate resilience objectives," said a source involved in the negotiations, speaking on condition of anonymity. "It represents a practical approach to water security in coastal regions while supporting broader maritime development goals."
The investment is expected to generate employment opportunities, stimulate local economic activity, and improve critical infrastructure at Pakistan's key ports. Beyond water treatment facilities, the collaboration aims to enhance port infrastructure and potentially boost maritime tourism.
Representatives from the Chinese firm have reportedly agreed to continue working with Pakistan's Ministry of Maritime Affairs on joint development projects in the future, highlighting the strategic importance of Pakistan's 1,050-kilometer coastline and its three major commercial ports.
The SIFC, established to streamline foreign investment processes in Pakistan, has been instrumental in facilitating these discussions by coordinating between various government departments and the Chinese investors.
Maritime experts note that such investments could help modernize Pakistan's port infrastructure, potentially increasing cargo handling capacity and operational efficiency while addressing environmental challenges.
This initiative represents one of several potential Chinese investments in Pakistan's maritime sector being explored through the SIFC platform, which aims to enhance bilateral economic cooperation beyond the existing China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) framework.
