Govt Launches New Plan to Make Gilgit-China Border Regional Trade Hub

The government has directed the National Logistics Corporation (NLC) to expand the Sost Dry Port into a strategic export hub while accelerating efforts to strengthen Pakistan's regional trade connectivity with China and Central Asia.

The directive was issued by Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal while chairing the 68th meeting of the National Logistics Board on Tuesday.

During the meeting, NLC officials briefed the board on the organization's operational, administrative and financial performance. The board was informed that NLC has made significant progress in expanding regional connectivity, diversifying export opportunities for Pakistani products, and establishing international trade corridors.

It was briefed that the establishment of forward transit trade centres in Serhetabat (Turkmenistan), Termez (Uzbekistan), and Kashgar (China) will strengthen regional trade and improve access to international markets.

The board also reviewed new NLC projects aimed at upgrading logistics infrastructure, promoting value addition in agriculture, and supporting export growth.

Addressing the meeting, Ahsan Iqbal said the Sost Dry Port should be developed into a strategic logistics gateway to enhance Pakistan's exports and deepen regional trade integration. He also called for the establishment of an international-standard driving academy to produce skilled commercial drivers capable of meeting global industry requirements.

The minister further directed that trainees should receive foreign language education to improve communication with international logistics partners, particularly under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Ahsan Iqbal said logistics is no longer limited to transporting goods but has become the backbone of a competitive economy, resilient supply chains, national security, and sustainable development. He noted that countries with efficient transport networks, multimodal connectivity, digital logistics, and streamlined trade facilitation have successfully reduced business costs and delivery times.

He stressed that modernising Pakistan's logistics system is a national economic priority and essential for achieving export-led growth, industrial competitiveness, and regional connectivity targets envisioned under the government's Uraan Pakistan initiative.

The planning minister also praised NLC's overall performance and acknowledged its leading role in modernising Pakistan's transport and logistics sector.

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