Gwadar, Sohar ports set for closer trade and investment ties

Pakistan and Oman have discussed plans to establish Gwadar Port and Oman’s Sohar Port as sister ports, in a move that could strengthen economic and maritime links between the two countries.

The proposal was discussed during a meeting between Gwadar Port Authority Chairman Noor Ul Haq Baloch and Oman’s Consul General Sami Abdullah Salim Al Khanjari.

The officials examined ways to increase cooperation in trade, shipping and logistics. They also discussed how stronger links between the two ports could create new opportunities for businesses in both countries.

Gwadar-Sohar link could improve regional trade

The proposed sister-port arrangement could give Pakistan a stronger maritime connection with Oman and wider Gulf markets.

Officials said the cooperation could also help connect the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) with markets in the Gulf and Central Asia. Better coordination between Gwadar and Sohar may make cargo movement more efficient and reduce transit times.

The plan comes as both countries look for ways to expand economic cooperation beyond traditional trade. Closer port links could support shipping companies, exporters, importers and logistics businesses.

Gwadar’s location on the Arabian Sea gives it strategic importance for regional trade. Sohar, meanwhile, is an important Omani port serving industrial and commercial activity.

A stronger connection between the two ports could therefore provide businesses with another route for moving goods between Pakistan, Oman and other regional markets.

Direct air link also discussed

The two sides also discussed the possibility of establishing direct air connectivity between Gwadar and Oman.

Officials considered using Salam Air to operate flights through the newly developed Gwadar International Airport. Such a connection could make travel easier for businesspeople, investors and passengers.

Improved air links could also support the proposed maritime cooperation. Easier travel between the two countries may encourage more business meetings, investment activity and tourism.

The discussions show that Pakistan and Oman are considering connectivity through both sea and air routes.

For Gwadar, better international connectivity could help increase activity around the port and nearby economic zones. For Oman, stronger links with Pakistan could provide additional opportunities for trade and investment.

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Oman explores investment opportunities in Gwadar

Potential Omani investment in the Gwadar Free Zone was another key issue discussed during the meeting.

The officials explored possible cooperation in logistics, warehousing and fisheries. These sectors could benefit from increased movement of goods and stronger links between the two ports.

Joint ventures could also bring new businesses and investment into Gwadar. However, the discussions remain at the planning stage, and further steps will be required before specific projects are finalised.

The proposed cooperation could become important for Gwadar’s wider development if investment plans move forward.

The port has been presented as an important part of Pakistan’s regional connectivity strategy. Greater participation by Omani companies could add another dimension to its commercial development.

Technical cooperation also part of plan

Pakistan and Oman also agreed to explore technical cooperation in several areas related to port operations.

These areas include port management, dredging, digital port systems and training programmes for port employees. Such cooperation could help both sides share technical knowledge and improve operational capacity.

Digital systems are becoming increasingly important for modern ports because they can help speed up cargo handling and improve coordination. Training and technical exchanges could also help workers gain experience with modern port practices.

The two sides agreed to work toward finalising a memorandum of understanding through their respective ministries in the coming weeks.

Oman’s consul general assured Pakistan of his country’s support for advancing the proposed cooperation framework.