Jiwani Port Development: Transforming Regional Trade and Security in the Arabian Sea. Discover how this ambitious project is set to reshape economic and geopolitical dynamics in South Asia. (2025)
- Executive Summary: Vision and Strategic Importance
- Historical Context and Current Status of Jiwani Port
- Geopolitical Implications: Regional and Global Stakeholders
- Infrastructure Plans: Design, Technology, and Capacity
- Economic Impact: Trade, Investment, and Job Creation
- Environmental Considerations and Sustainability Initiatives
- Security and Defense: Maritime Safety and Naval Presence
- Integration with CPEC and Other Regional Corridors
- Market and Public Interest Forecast: Growth Projections and Stakeholder Sentiment
- Future Outlook: Challenges, Opportunities, and Long-Term Potential
- Sources & References
Executive Summary: Vision and Strategic Importance
The development of Jiwani Port, located on Pakistan’s southwestern Makran coast near the border with Iran, is emerging as a strategic initiative in the country’s broader maritime and economic vision for 2025 and the coming years. Positioned at the mouth of the Gulf of Oman and close to major international shipping lanes, Jiwani Port is envisioned to complement the operational Gwadar Port Authority and serve as a critical node in Pakistan’s efforts to enhance regional connectivity, maritime security, and economic diversification.
In 2025, the Government of Pakistan, through the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, has prioritized the initial phases of Jiwani Port’s development, focusing on feasibility studies, environmental assessments, and stakeholder consultations. The port’s strategic location is expected to facilitate not only commercial shipping but also support naval operations, given its proximity to the Strait of Hormuz—a vital chokepoint for global energy supplies. The port’s development aligns with Pakistan’s “Blue Economy” policy, which seeks to harness the country’s maritime resources for sustainable economic growth and regional integration.
Jiwani Port’s vision extends beyond cargo handling; it is projected to serve as a logistics and transshipment hub, supporting trade with Iran, the Gulf states, and East Africa. The port is also expected to play a role in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), providing redundancy and resilience to the region’s supply chains. The Ministry of Maritime Affairs has indicated that the port’s master plan will integrate modern infrastructure, including deep-water berths, container terminals, and support facilities for fisheries and ship repair.
Strategically, Jiwani Port is seen as a means to diversify Pakistan’s maritime assets and reduce congestion at existing ports. Its development is anticipated to attract foreign investment, create employment opportunities in Balochistan, and stimulate ancillary industries such as logistics, shipbuilding, and tourism. The port’s proximity to the Iranian border also opens avenues for cross-border trade and energy cooperation, subject to evolving geopolitical dynamics.
Looking ahead, the next few years will be critical for translating the vision for Jiwani Port into tangible progress. The government’s commitment to transparent regulatory frameworks, environmental stewardship, and regional partnerships will be essential for the port’s sustainable development. As Pakistan positions itself as a key maritime player in the region, Jiwani Port is poised to become a cornerstone of its strategic and economic ambitions.
Historical Context and Current Status of Jiwani Port
Jiwani Port, located on Pakistan’s southwestern Makran coast near the border with Iran, has historically been a modest fishing harbor with limited infrastructure and regional significance. Its strategic position at the mouth of the Gulf of Oman, however, has long attracted attention for potential development as a commercial and naval facility. The port lies approximately 80 kilometers west of Gwadar, another major port under development, and is situated within the province of Balochistan, an area central to Pakistan’s maritime ambitions.
In the early 2000s, the Government of Pakistan began to recognize Jiwani’s potential as part of a broader strategy to enhance maritime infrastructure along the Arabian Sea. Initial efforts focused on feasibility studies and small-scale upgrades to support local fishing communities. However, the port remained largely underutilized, overshadowed by the rapid development of Gwadar Port, which became the flagship project of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a multi-billion dollar initiative led by the Government of Pakistan in partnership with the Government of the People’s Republic of China (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Authority).
By 2025, renewed interest in Jiwani Port has emerged, driven by several factors. First, the increasing congestion and security concerns at Gwadar have prompted policymakers to consider alternative sites for commercial and strategic activities. Second, the proximity of Jiwani to international shipping lanes and the Iranian border positions it as a potential node for regional trade and transshipment. In recent years, the Government of Pakistan has included Jiwani in its national port development plans, with proposals for new berths, breakwaters, and supporting infrastructure. The Ministry of Maritime Affairs, which oversees port development, has signaled intentions to attract both public and private investment to accelerate the port’s modernization (Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Government of Pakistan).
As of 2025, concrete progress remains in the preparatory phase. Environmental impact assessments, land acquisition, and stakeholder consultations are ongoing. The port’s current facilities are limited to basic jetties and small-scale cargo handling, primarily serving local fishing fleets. However, the government’s medium-term outlook envisions Jiwani evolving into a multipurpose port, with capabilities for commercial shipping, fisheries, and potentially naval operations. This development is expected to complement, rather than compete with, Gwadar, providing redundancy and resilience to Pakistan’s maritime infrastructure.
Looking ahead, the pace and scale of Jiwani Port’s transformation will depend on sustained political commitment, security conditions in Balochistan, and the ability to mobilize investment. The port’s development is also likely to be influenced by regional dynamics, including Pakistan’s relations with Iran and the broader Indian Ocean maritime environment. While significant operational capacity is not anticipated before the late 2020s, the groundwork laid in 2025 is expected to shape the port’s trajectory in the coming years.
Geopolitical Implications: Regional and Global Stakeholders
The development of Jiwani Port, located near the western edge of Pakistan’s Balochistan province and close to the maritime boundary with Iran, is emerging as a significant geopolitical focal point in 2025. The port’s strategic position at the mouth of the Gulf of Oman, just east of the Strait of Hormuz—a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies—has drawn the attention of regional and global stakeholders. As Pakistan advances its plans for Jiwani, the port is increasingly viewed in the context of broader regional connectivity, security, and competition.
Pakistan’s government has signaled its intent to develop Jiwani as a complementary facility to the nearby Gwadar Port, which is a flagship project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor Authority has identified Jiwani as a potential site for future logistics, naval, and commercial infrastructure, aiming to enhance Pakistan’s maritime capabilities and economic integration with regional trade routes. The proximity of Jiwani to the Iranian border also positions it as a possible node for cross-border trade and energy cooperation, especially as Pakistan and Iran explore joint ventures in energy and transport.
China remains a key stakeholder, given its deep involvement in CPEC and its strategic interest in securing maritime access routes for its Belt and Road Initiative. The development of Jiwani could provide China with additional redundancy and flexibility in the region, supplementing its investments in Gwadar. This has raised concerns among other regional actors, particularly India, which views the expansion of Chinese-backed infrastructure near the Arabian Sea as a challenge to its own strategic interests and its investments in Iran’s Chabahar Port.
The United States and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are also monitoring developments at Jiwani. The port’s location near the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply transits, makes it a point of interest for global energy security. The Pakistan Navy has indicated plans to expand its presence in the area, which could have implications for regional maritime security dynamics and the balance of naval power in the Arabian Sea.
Looking ahead, the trajectory of Jiwani Port’s development will depend on the interplay of regional cooperation and competition. If managed inclusively, the port could foster greater economic integration and stability. However, if perceived as an exclusive or militarized asset, it risks exacerbating regional rivalries. The next few years will be critical in determining whether Jiwani becomes a bridge for connectivity or a flashpoint in the evolving geopolitics of the Indian Ocean region.
Infrastructure Plans: Design, Technology, and Capacity
The development of Jiwani Port, located on Pakistan’s southwestern Makran coast near the border with Iran, is emerging as a strategic infrastructure initiative within the country’s broader maritime and economic ambitions. As of 2025, the port’s infrastructure plans are being shaped by both national priorities and regional connectivity objectives, with a focus on phased expansion, modern technology integration, and scalable capacity.
The initial design for Jiwani Port centers on establishing a deep-water facility capable of handling general cargo, bulk shipments, and containerized freight. According to the Gwadar Port Authority—the government body overseeing port development in the region—Jiwani is envisioned as a complementary node to the larger Gwadar Port, with a focus on relieving congestion, supporting fisheries, and serving as a logistics hub for cross-border trade. The master plan, currently under review, includes the construction of multi-purpose berths, a dedicated fishing harbor, and supporting infrastructure such as storage yards, customs facilities, and access roads.
Technologically, the port’s blueprint incorporates modern cargo handling systems, digital port management platforms, and security infrastructure aligned with international standards. The integration of automated container tracking, electronic data interchange (EDI), and vessel traffic management systems is planned to enhance operational efficiency and transparency. The Ministry of Maritime Affairs has indicated that environmental sustainability will be a core consideration, with provisions for green port technologies, waste management, and coastal protection measures.
In terms of capacity, the first phase—expected to be operational by 2027—aims for an annual throughput of approximately 2 million tons, with scalability to 5 million tons as demand grows. The port’s design allows for future expansion, including additional berths and deeper draft to accommodate larger vessels. The proximity to the Makran Coastal Highway and planned rail links will facilitate multimodal connectivity, integrating Jiwani into the national and regional logistics network.
Looking ahead, the port’s development is closely tied to regional trade initiatives, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and potential transshipment opportunities with Iran and the Gulf states. The Gwadar Port Authority and Ministry of Maritime Affairs are actively seeking public-private partnerships to accelerate construction and attract investment in port operations, logistics, and value-added services. As these infrastructure plans progress, Jiwani Port is positioned to play a pivotal role in Pakistan’s maritime strategy over the next several years.
Economic Impact: Trade, Investment, and Job Creation
The development of Jiwani Port, located near the western edge of Pakistan’s Balochistan province, is poised to have significant economic implications for the region in 2025 and the coming years. As part of Pakistan’s broader strategy to enhance its maritime infrastructure, Jiwani Port is being positioned as a complementary facility to the more established Gwadar Port, with a focus on regional trade, fisheries, and logistics. The port’s proximity to the Strait of Hormuz—a critical global energy chokepoint—further amplifies its strategic and economic potential.
In 2025, the Government of Pakistan, through the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, has prioritized the initial phases of Jiwani Port’s development. This includes the construction of basic port infrastructure, dredging of the harbor, and the establishment of customs and immigration facilities. The port is expected to handle a mix of commercial cargo, fisheries exports, and potentially serve as a transshipment hub for regional maritime traffic. According to official statements, the first phase aims to create direct employment for several hundred workers, with indirect job creation in supporting sectors such as transportation, warehousing, and local services.
Investment in Jiwani Port is being structured through a combination of public funding and targeted incentives for private sector participation. The Board of Investment has highlighted Jiwani as a priority zone for foreign direct investment, particularly from regional partners interested in logistics, cold storage, and fisheries processing. The port’s development is also being integrated into the broader framework of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), with discussions underway for potential Chinese technical and financial support, though formal agreements are still in negotiation as of 2025.
Trade prospects for Jiwani Port are closely linked to its role in supporting the local fisheries industry, which is a major source of livelihood in the Makran coastal belt. The port is expected to facilitate the export of seafood to Gulf countries and beyond, leveraging improved cold chain logistics and streamlined customs procedures. Additionally, the port’s development is anticipated to stimulate ancillary industries, including ship repair, marine supplies, and small-scale manufacturing.
Looking ahead, the economic impact of Jiwani Port will depend on the pace of infrastructure completion, the effectiveness of investment incentives, and the integration of the port into regional trade networks. If current plans proceed on schedule, Jiwani could emerge as a significant node in Pakistan’s maritime economy by the late 2020s, contributing to job creation, increased trade volumes, and enhanced regional connectivity.
Environmental Considerations and Sustainability Initiatives
The development of Jiwani Port, located near the western edge of Pakistan’s Balochistan province, has brought environmental considerations and sustainability initiatives to the forefront of planning and implementation in 2025. As the port is situated adjacent to the ecologically sensitive Jiwani Wetlands and the habitat of endangered species such as the Olive Ridley and Green turtles, environmental stewardship has become a central concern for stakeholders, including the Government of Pakistan and the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency.
In 2025, environmental impact assessments (EIAs) are being conducted in accordance with national regulations under the Pakistan Environmental Protection Act, overseen by the Ministry of Climate Change, Government of Pakistan. These assessments focus on mitigating risks to marine biodiversity, coastal mangroves, and migratory bird populations. The EIAs have led to the implementation of buffer zones around critical habitats and the scheduling of construction activities to avoid turtle nesting seasons.
Sustainability initiatives at Jiwani Port are being shaped by international best practices and Pakistan’s commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity. The port’s master plan, as reviewed in 2025, incorporates green infrastructure elements such as stormwater management systems, energy-efficient lighting, and the use of non-toxic materials in construction. The Gwadar Port Authority, which is providing technical guidance for Jiwani’s development, has emphasized the integration of renewable energy sources, including solar power, to reduce the port’s carbon footprint.
Furthermore, the Pakistan Navy and the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency are collaborating on marine pollution monitoring and oil spill response preparedness. These agencies are deploying real-time water quality monitoring buoys and conducting regular patrols to enforce anti-dumping regulations in the adjacent waters.
Looking ahead, the outlook for environmental sustainability at Jiwani Port is cautiously optimistic. Ongoing stakeholder consultations, including with local fishing communities and conservation NGOs, are expected to inform adaptive management strategies. The port’s development is being closely monitored by the Ministry of Climate Change, Government of Pakistan, which is committed to ensuring compliance with both national and international environmental standards. As the port moves from planning to operational phases over the next few years, the effectiveness of these sustainability initiatives will be critical in balancing economic growth with the preservation of Jiwani’s unique coastal ecosystem.
Security and Defense: Maritime Safety and Naval Presence
The development of Jiwani Port, located near the western edge of Pakistan’s coastline in Balochistan, has significant implications for maritime security and defense in the region, especially as the port’s strategic position near the Gulf of Oman and the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz becomes increasingly relevant. As of 2025, the Government of Pakistan has prioritized the enhancement of maritime safety and the expansion of naval presence in and around Jiwani, recognizing its proximity to key international shipping lanes and its potential role in regional security dynamics.
The Pakistan Navy, the principal maritime defense force of the country, has increased its operational focus on the Makran coast, which includes Jiwani. This includes the establishment of new surveillance outposts, the deployment of fast attack craft, and the integration of coastal radar systems to monitor vessel movements and deter illicit activities such as smuggling and unauthorized fishing. The Navy’s stated objective is to ensure the security of both commercial and military maritime traffic, particularly as Jiwani is expected to complement the larger Gwadar Port in handling cargo and supporting logistics for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and other regional trade initiatives (Pakistan Navy).
In 2025, the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA), a paramilitary force under the Ministry of Defence, has also expanded its patrols and search-and-rescue capabilities in the Jiwani area. The PMSA’s mandate includes the enforcement of maritime law, protection of Pakistan’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), and safeguarding of marine resources. The agency has reported increased cooperation with the Pakistan Navy to conduct joint exercises and intelligence sharing, aiming to counter threats such as piracy, trafficking, and potential incursions by non-state actors (Pakistan Maritime Security Agency).
Looking ahead, official plans indicate further investments in port security infrastructure, including the installation of advanced surveillance equipment, the construction of secure berthing facilities for naval and PMSA vessels, and the development of rapid response protocols for maritime incidents. These measures are designed to not only protect the port and its approaches but also to project stability in a region marked by geopolitical competition and evolving security challenges. The ongoing modernization of Pakistan’s naval assets, including the induction of new patrol vessels and maritime patrol aircraft, is expected to enhance the country’s ability to secure Jiwani and its adjacent waters over the next several years (Ministry of Defence, Government of Pakistan).
Integration with CPEC and Other Regional Corridors
The development of Jiwani Port, located near the western edge of Pakistan’s coastline in Balochistan, is increasingly being discussed in the context of its integration with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and other regional connectivity initiatives. As of 2025, Jiwani’s strategic position—close to the maritime boundary with Iran and at the mouth of the Gulf of Oman—has drawn attention from both national planners and international stakeholders seeking to expand trade and logistics networks in the region.
CPEC, a flagship project under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), is a multi-billion dollar framework aimed at enhancing connectivity between China’s Xinjiang region and Pakistan’s Arabian Sea ports, primarily through road, rail, and energy infrastructure. While Gwadar Port has been the centerpiece of CPEC’s maritime ambitions, official planning documents and statements from the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor Authority and the Gwadar Port Authority have increasingly referenced Jiwani as a potential complementary facility. The rationale is to relieve future congestion at Gwadar, diversify port access, and provide redundancy for critical maritime infrastructure.
In 2025, preliminary feasibility studies and environmental assessments for Jiwani Port are underway, with the Gwadar Port Authority and the Gwadar Development Authority involved in early-stage planning. These studies are evaluating the port’s capacity to handle bulk cargo, containerized shipments, and support for fisheries, as well as its integration with planned road and rail links under CPEC’s western alignment. The proximity of Jiwani to the Makran Coastal Highway and its potential connection to the planned railway extension from Gwadar are seen as key enablers for its integration into the broader corridor network.
Regionally, Jiwani’s development is also being considered in the context of transnational corridors such as the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and potential linkages with Iranian and Central Asian logistics networks. The port’s location offers a unique vantage point for facilitating trade not only between Pakistan and China, but also with Gulf states and beyond. Discussions between Pakistani authorities and regional partners are ongoing to explore customs harmonization, security protocols, and investment frameworks that would allow Jiwani to serve as a node in these emerging corridors.
Looking ahead, the outlook for Jiwani Port’s integration with CPEC and other regional corridors will depend on the pace of infrastructure investment, security stabilization in Balochistan, and the evolving geopolitical landscape. If current planning milestones are met, the next few years could see Jiwani emerge as a strategic supplement to Gwadar, enhancing Pakistan’s role in regional trade and connectivity.
Market and Public Interest Forecast: Growth Projections and Stakeholder Sentiment
The development of Jiwani Port, located near the western edge of Pakistan’s Balochistan province, is increasingly drawing attention from both public and private stakeholders as a potential catalyst for regional economic growth. As of 2025, the port remains in the early stages of infrastructure planning and investment, but its strategic location—close to the maritime boundary with Iran and at the mouth of the Gulf of Oman—positions it as a complementary asset to the more established Gwadar Port. The Government of Pakistan, through the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, has signaled its intent to accelerate the port’s development, aiming to diversify the country’s maritime logistics and reduce congestion at existing facilities (Ministry of Maritime Affairs).
Market projections for Jiwani Port over the next few years are cautiously optimistic. The port is expected to serve as a multipurpose facility, with initial focus on bulk cargo, fisheries, and transshipment services. According to official statements, the government is seeking public-private partnerships to finance and operate key components of the port, including container terminals and supporting logistics infrastructure. This approach is designed to attract both domestic and foreign investment, particularly from regional players interested in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and broader Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) logistics chains (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor Authority).
Stakeholder sentiment is mixed but trending positive. Local business communities and provincial authorities have expressed strong support, citing the potential for job creation, fisheries sector expansion, and improved connectivity for remote coastal areas. However, some concerns persist regarding environmental impacts and the need for inclusive development that benefits local populations. The federal government has responded by initiating environmental assessments and community engagement programs to address these issues.
In terms of growth projections, official estimates suggest that, if current plans proceed on schedule, Jiwani Port could handle several million tons of cargo annually within five to seven years of full-scale operations. This would represent a significant addition to Pakistan’s port capacity and could help capture transshipment traffic currently bypassing the region. The port’s proximity to international shipping lanes and its potential integration with road and rail networks further enhance its long-term outlook.
Overall, the next few years are expected to see incremental progress, with milestones tied to infrastructure investment, regulatory approvals, and partnership agreements. The success of Jiwani Port’s development will depend on sustained government commitment, effective stakeholder collaboration, and the ability to align with regional trade dynamics.
Future Outlook: Challenges, Opportunities, and Long-Term Potential
The future outlook for Jiwani Port development in 2025 and the coming years is shaped by a complex interplay of strategic opportunities, infrastructural challenges, and evolving regional dynamics. Located near the Pakistan-Iran border and the mouth of the Gulf of Oman, Jiwani Port is positioned to complement the larger Gwadar Port Authority initiatives, potentially serving as a secondary node in Pakistan’s broader maritime strategy.
One of the primary opportunities for Jiwani Port lies in its proximity to key international shipping lanes and its potential integration into the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The Government of Pakistan has signaled intentions to develop Jiwani as a commercial and possibly naval facility, with the aim of enhancing regional connectivity and providing redundancy to Gwadar’s operations. In 2025, preliminary infrastructure works—such as road linkages and feasibility studies—are expected to continue, with a focus on environmental assessments and stakeholder consultations. The port’s development is also being considered in the context of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs’s National Maritime Policy, which emphasizes diversification of port infrastructure and increased private sector participation.
However, several challenges could impede rapid progress. The region’s underdeveloped infrastructure, limited local workforce capacity, and security concerns—given its proximity to sensitive borders—pose significant hurdles. Environmental considerations are also paramount, as the Jiwani coastline is adjacent to ecologically sensitive mangrove forests and marine habitats, necessitating careful planning and compliance with national and international environmental standards. The Pakistan Navy has a presence in the area, and any dual-use (commercial and military) development will require coordination among multiple government agencies.
Looking ahead, the long-term potential of Jiwani Port is closely tied to regional geopolitics and the pace of economic integration in South and Central Asia. If successfully developed, Jiwani could serve as a strategic logistics hub, supporting transshipment, fisheries, and energy projects, while also providing Pakistan with greater leverage in regional maritime affairs. The port’s success will depend on sustained investment, security stabilization, and the ability to attract international shipping lines and investors. As of 2025, Jiwani remains in the early stages of development, but its strategic location and policy prioritization suggest that it will remain a focal point in Pakistan’s maritime ambitions over the next decade.
Sources & References
