Islamabad: For more than 16 years, Shah Nawaz Kakar has built his life and career in China. Originally from Quetta, Kakar progressed from a graduate of Zhejiang University to a facilitator of trade between China and Pakistan-a journey that reflects bilateral opportunities and shared prosperity, with Chinese automobiles entering the Pakistani market and chromite from Balochistan reaching Chinese buyers.
After earning a bachelor’s degree in trade from Zhejiang University in 2012, Kakar, CEO of the Hewad Group of Companies, remained in China, drawn by its business-friendly environment and entrepreneurial spirit, China Economic Net’s report on Tuesday. Kakar’s business roots run deep. His father began working in the textile industry two decades ago, and Kakar has carried that legacy forward.
Kakar’s observations are in line with broader market trends. According to the Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts & Accessories Manufacturers (PAAPAM), Chinese automakers currently account for approximately 20% of Pakistan’s passenger vehicle market.
Kakar said “that means we can also support import business into China.” This two-way flow-exporting Chinese cars and importing Pakistani minerals-embodies the kind of balanced, sustainable trade that benefits both nations. Kakar is keenly aware that many people in his home province of Balochistan have limited exposure to China. “Some in our province are not well-educated about China,” he admitted.
