Islamabad, March 22, 2025 – A new chapter in Pakistan-China trade relations was written today as the first-ever dedicated cargo flight from China landed at Islamabad International Airport, marking a .The flight, operated by ZhongPak Logistics, a joint venture between Chinese and Pakistani firms, arrived from Guangzhou at 4:15 AM local time, carrying an impressive 30 tons of goods, including electronics, textiles, and medical supplies. Historic Milestone
The Boeing 747-400F, adorned with symbols of friendship between the two countries, was greeted with a ceremonial water cannon salute as it taxied to the cargo terminal. A small but enthusiastic crowd of officials, business leaders, and media personnel gathered to witness the historic event despite the early hour. The flight’s arrival is seen as a game-changer for bilateral trade, promising faster delivery times and reduced costs for businesses on both sides.
“This is more than just a flight; it’s a bridge between our economies,” said Pakistan’s Minister for Commerce, Ali Raza Khan, during a brief ceremony at the airport. “With direct cargo routes, we’re cutting down logistics hurdles and opening doors for small and medium enterprises to tap into the massive Chinese market.” The minister also highlighted the potential for Pakistani exporters, particularly those dealing in perishable goods like mangoes and seafood, to benefit from quicker air transport.
The initiative comes as part of the broader China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) framework, which has already transformed infrastructure across Pakistan. ZhongPak Logistics announced plans to operate three weekly flights initially, with intentions to scale up based on demand. “Our goal is to make air freight a reliable and efficient option for businesses,” said Li Wei, the company’s CEO, adding that the route will also facilitate e-commerce shipments, a rapidly growing sector in both countries.
On the ground, excitement was palpable among local traders. “This could revolutionize how we do business,” said Ayesha Siddiqui, a Karachi-based importer of electronics. “Shipping by sea takes weeks; now we’re talking days.”
As the plane was unloaded, the sight of crates stamped with “Made in China” rolling into the terminal underscored the deepening economic partnership. With this maiden flight, Islamabad has positioned itself as a key hub in the region’s evolving trade landscape, paving the way for a future of faster, more efficient commerce.
