Gwadar Chamber Delegation Calls for Stronger Trade Integration during Tehran Visit

• 13 May 2025

– A senior-level delegation from Pakistan’s Gwadar Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) paid an official visit to Tehran, engaging with high-ranking Iranian trade officials at the Tehran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture (TCCIMA), where both sides explored practical avenues for expanding bilateral trade, particularly through enhanced port and border cooperation between Gwadar and Chabahar.

The visiting delegation included prominent members Amanullah Jan Baloch , Jam Khalid , Sharif Mehdad, Abdul Ghafoor kalmati, and others. The discussions centered around advancing cross-border economic collaboration, with an emphasis on inclusive development and fair representation for stakeholders from Gwadar in Iranian commercial frameworks.

During the exchange, the Gwadar delegation formally recommended that traders from Gwadar be given priority in Iranian border markets, especially in areas near Chabahar. It was proposed that commercial spaces, stalls, and shops be allocated to Gwadar traders, allowing for equal opportunity and promoting mutual economic benefit in line with the shared vision of regional prosperity.

Among other key demands raised was the simplification of visa issuance procedures, particularly for participants of bilateral exhibitions and business expos. The Pakistani delegation urged Iranian authorities to issue event-based, multi-entry business visas to ensure hassle-free participation and stronger trade continuity.

Furthermore, the formation of a permanent Joint Trade Coordination Committee was suggested to address operational challenges, streamline customs procedures, and oversee the implementation of agreed-upon trade measures. The committee would serve as a communication bridge between Tehran and Gwadar to ensure continuity in dialogue and problem-solving.

The issue of border crossings such as Rimdan-Gabd and Pishin-Mand was also brought to attention. The Gwadar side advocated for infrastructure upgrades and trade facilitation at these points, allowing smoother flow of goods and people. They also stressed the importance of expanding border marketplaces and urged Iranian authorities to reserve a portion of these for Pakistani—particularly Gwadar-based—traders.

Iranian officials responded positively, reaffirming their intent to expand cooperation and recognizing the complementary nature of Gwadar and Chabahar ports. The Iranian side acknowledged that these ports should not be seen as rivals, but rather as joint assets capable of transforming regional trade under multilateral platforms like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO).

Also highlighted was the need to jointly develop logistics hubs, transit infrastructure, and support services to boost the efficiency of overland and maritime trade routes. Both parties agreed to encourage bilateral investments, joint industrial zones, and trade fairs that bring together manufacturers and suppliers from both nations.

At the conclusion of the meeting, there was mutual agreement to maintain momentum through follow-up visits, technical delegations, and structured coordination. The visit of the Gwadar delegation marked a significant step toward reinforcing Iran-Pakistan commercial ties and ensuring inclusive participation of Gwadar’s business community in future economic initiatives.