The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) on Thursday decided to establish a modern Expo Pavilion Centre in the city to promote commercial activities, support local industries, and create new opportunities for trade and investment.
The proposed facility will be developed on the model of the Pakistan Pavilion showcased at the World Expo 2020 in Dubai.
Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab shared spoke during a meeting with prominent members of civil society held at the KMC Head Office. He said Karachi, being the country’s economic hub, requires modern and sustainable facilities to promote trade, exhibitions, and international business engagement.
He said the proposed Expo Pavilion Centre will serve as a platform to showcase Karachi’s industrial and commercial potential, while also highlighting local products for both domestic and international markets. According to mayor, the initiative aims to boost exports, strengthen commercial ties, and provide traders and industries with opportunities to connect with global buyers.
Wahab said the facility will be established at Bagh Ibne Qasim, one of the most prime and accessible locations in the city, which offers sufficient space and strategic advantage for large-scale trade and exhibition activities. He emphasized that by creating such infrastructure and providing sustainable facilities to traders and industries, Karachi can further enhance its role as a major economic centre and significantly increase revenue, business opportunities, and investment.
During the meeting, the mayor directed Municipal Commissioner Ibrar Jaffar to prepare a comprehensive feasibility report for the proposed project and identify suitable land within Bagh Ibne Qasim for the establishment of the exhibition pavilion. He also instructed that the project be implemented through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to ensure efficient development and long-term sustainability.
He further stated that the idea behind the initiative is to establish a permanent “Pakistan Pavilion” style facility similar to the successful pavilion presented during the Dubai World Expo. The centre will act as a one-window platform for local manufacturers, exporters, and international buyers to connect and explore business opportunities. He noted that with increasing commercial activities and export potential, Karachi requires a state-of-the-art exhibition and trade centre capable of hosting international trade fairs, industry expos, and investment forums.
Barrister Wahab reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening Karachi’s economic landscape. He said that the city has historically been the country’s commercial backbone and holds immense potential to once again emerge as a global business hub. By improving infrastructure, facilitating industries, and encouraging partnerships with the private sector, the city can regain its historic economic strength.
He added that the development initiatives currently underway in Karachi reflect the vision of Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, who has consistently emphasized sustainable urban development and economic revival.
The mayor said Karachi holds special importance for the party leadership, and every possible effort will be made to provide better opportunities and facilities for its residents.
“Karachi is the city of our chairman, and we will continue to work tirelessly for its progress in every field,” the mayor said, adding that the results of ongoing development initiatives have already started to become visible. He expressed confidence that within the current year, several more projects aimed at improving infrastructure, trade facilities, and urban services will be introduced.
