The Khairpur Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Sindh, Pakistan, has achieved a remarkable milestone by winning second place in the Asia-Pacific category at the fDi Global Free Zones of the Year 2025 Awards. These awards, organized by fDi Intelligence (a part of the Financial Times group), recognize industrial and economic zones around the world that show outstanding performance in attracting investment, improving business facilities, creating jobs, and supporting economic reforms.
This honor highlights Pakistan’s growing reputation as an attractive destination for investors — especially in Sindh province, which continues to move forward despite national economic challenges such as inflation, currency pressure, and energy shortages. Through progressive reforms and strong public-private partnerships, Sindh has shown that consistent policy efforts can bring global recognition.
Khairpur Special Economic Zone, has earned international recognition in the FT Global Free Zones of the Year 2025 Awards by fDi Magazine.
Recognized as one of the best in the world & runner up in the Asia-Pacific . Sindh has consistently performed to international standards.… pic.twitter.com/cv8LNK6cz1
— Bilawal Bhutto Zardari (@BBhuttoZardari) October 14, 2025
Background and Purpose of Khairpur SEZ
Established in 2016, the Khairpur Special Economic Zone spans about 350 acres and is managed by the Sindh Economic Zones Management Company (SEZMC). Its main goal is to promote industrial activity, attract both local and foreign investors, and create job opportunities for the people of Sindh.
The zone is located at a highly strategic position — near the Sukkur Motorway (M-6) — making it easily accessible from major cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. It is also close to Sukkur Airport and the national highway network, making it an ideal location for export-oriented industries that depend on efficient logistics and transport links.
Investment Opportunities and Key Industries
Khairpur SEZ has been specially designed for agro-processing, textiles, food packaging, chemicals, and light manufacturing. Since Khairpur and nearby districts produce a large share of Sindh’s agricultural output — including dates, mangoes, wheat, rice, and cotton — the zone naturally serves as a center for processing and adding value to these products before export.
Investors from China, Turkey, Italy, and Germany have already shown strong interest. Several joint ventures have been established, and more are under consideration. The zone offers generous tax holidays for up to ten years, customs duty exemptions, and simplified import procedures for industrial machinery, making it one of the most investor-friendly zones in Pakistan.
Sindh Government’s Reform Policies
The success of Khairpur SEZ is largely the result of reform-driven policies by the Sindh government. Over recent years, the province has introduced a One-Window Operation that allows investors to complete all registration, licensing, and land-allotment procedures in one place — saving both time and money.
In addition, the Sindh Economic Zones Management Company has launched a Digital Investment Portal, enabling foreign investors to apply online, track progress, and communicate directly with government departments. This has improved transparency, reduced delays, and encouraged confidence among investors.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
So far, Khairpur SEZ has created thousands of local jobs and continues to train young workers in modern industrial skills. The zone’s infrastructure — including power supply, clean water, waste management, and logistics — has been designed to meet international standards. These improvements have lowered production costs and made Sindh a more competitive industrial hub.
The economic activity generated by the SEZ has also benefitted nearby districts such as Nawabshah, Sukkur, and Ghotki, where supporting industries and service sectors are emerging. This growth ripple effect shows how one successful zone can boost regional development.
Global Recognition
The recognition from fDi Intelligence has placed Khairpur SEZ on the global investment map and sent a positive signal about Pakistan’s industrial potential. The award’s judges praised the zone for “laying the foundation for sustainable industrial growth in a challenging economic environment.”
They also appreciated Sindh’s public-private partnership model, describing it as an example for other developing countries in South Asia. This demonstrates that Pakistan, with the right mix of transparency and consistency, can attract global investors and compete internationally.
Challenges and Future Prospects
While this achievement is impressive, challenges remain. Issues like energy shortages, infrastructure expansion, export facilitation, and easier access to global markets still need focused attention.
The management of Khairpur SEZ has already announced plans to expand the zone and introduce a Smart Industrial Zone concept — incorporating digital monitoring, green energy solutions, and eco-friendly production methods to align with global sustainability trends.
Conclusion
The success of the Khairpur Special Economic Zone is not just about winning an award; it represents the future of Pakistan’s industrial transformation. It proves that with the right policies, transparency, and collaboration between the public and private sectors, Pakistan can become a strong player in the regional and global economy.
This recognition also brings new hope to the people of Sindh. If progress continues at the same pace, other economic zones in Pakistan could soon join Khairpur SEZ on the international stage — showing that the country is capable of building a sustainable, investment-friendly, and forward-looking industrial landscape.