Pakistani, Chinese officials review progress on Challenge SEZ

LAHORE: Pakistani and Chinese officials have toured the under-construction Challenge Special Economic Zone in Lahore, reaffirming strong bilateral economic ties as the landmark USD 200 million project edges closer to completion. Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi, and Punjab’s Minister for Industries and Commerce, Chaudhry Shafay Hussain, joined Chinese investors at the site located on Lahore-Kasur Road to review development progress. The first phase of the zone is expected to be completed next year, generating approximately 8,000 jobs. Prominent businessman Qamar Khan Boby projected that value-added textile exports from the zone could reach USD 300 million within two years, supporting up to 10,000 workers. A Chinese mobile phone manufacturer is also reportedly planning to establish a production facility in Pakistan. The visit concluded with the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding between a Chinese investment firm and the Punjab government, further cementing growing economic cooperation between the two countries. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

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