The Ministry of Maritime Affairs has begun to work their way to establish an economic corridor between the sea port pf Karachi and Djibouti which will enhance the trade with East African community (EAC), including Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. These countries are home to over 500 million people and have a collective gross domestic product (GDP) of approximately $600 billion.
The successful implementation of the plan will be ensured by the formation of an inter ministerial consortium with the relevant ministries. According to the Federal Minister of Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhary, “These institutions will operate under a comprehensive coordinated framework to provide integrated support in areas such as trade, finance, diplomacy, and technology. This collaborative effort will make certain that Pakistani businesses have the necessary tools and support to succeed in the East African market.”
The first phase of the planning revolves around the establishment of a direct shipping line between Karachi Port and Djibouti. This launch will significantly reduce transit times and costs as Djibouti serves as a vital area joining major countries like Somalia and Ethiopia. The second phase of the plan will involve a thorough completion of the Gawadar Port and enabling to connect to the EAC for it to become a hub for exports and sea trade of the country.
Mr Junaid Chaudhary added “This strategic initiative will not only bolster our export potential but will also contribute to Pakistan’s economic growth by opening new avenues for trade and investment. Pakistan has a strong industrial base, and our products, ranging from textiles and agricultural goods to pharmaceuticals and machinery, are in high demand in East Africa. Our aim is to provide a direct and efficient pathway for these goods to reach consumers across the region, while also fostering long-term partnerships with EAC nations.”
