China and Pakistan are planning a $2.2 billion Integrated Maritime Industrial Complex (IMIC) at Port Qasim, following a proposal by China’s Shandong Xinxu Group. A five-member Chinese delegation, led by Chairman Hou Jianxin, presented the plan to Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Chaudhry.The proposed project includes revival of the Iron Ore and Coal Berth (IOCB) Jetty, development of shipbuilding and shipbreaking facilities, and establishment of a port-integrated steel mill. The IOCB Jetty will be capable of handling 55,000–75,000 DWT vessels and will be connected to stockyards and blast furnaces through a 4.5–8 km conveyor system, primarily supporting Pakistan Steel Mills.The government has sought detailed technical, financial, and environmental feasibility studies. If approved, the project could transform Port Qasim into a regional heavy-industry hub, generating jobs and boosting industrial growth.
