CPEC projects in Balochistan: jobs created and future projections explained

ISLAMABAD, Apr 29 (ABC): China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects in Balochistan have created more than 7,300 jobs so far, with over 10,000 additional positions expected in upcoming phases. The CPEC figures, based on official documents, highlight how infrastructure and development initiatives are contributing to employment in the province.

What are these projects?

Telling Wealth Pakistan CPEC is a collection of infrastructure, energy, and industrial projects developed under cooperation between Pakistan and China. In Balochistan, these projects span roads, ports, energy plants, water supply systems, and social services such as health and education. The CPEC employment data includes both completed projects and those still under construction. It also distinguishes between jobs already created and those projected for future phases.

How many jobs have been created so far?

According to official records, 7,313 jobs have been created or workers engaged across ongoing and completed projects. Several road infrastructure CPEC projects contributed to local employment. The Surab–Hoshab (N-85) road project employed 101 workers, all from local communities. In the M-8 motorway sections and the Khuzdar–Basima project, 616 local workers were engaged through contractors. Energy and industrial projects also generated jobs. The HUBCO coal power project created 627 positions, including 170 for people with Balochistan domicile. The Nokandi–Mashkail–Panjgur road project added 82 temporary jobs during construction. At Gwadar,CPEC multiple projects contributed to employment. The New Gwadar International Airport created 107 jobs, including 63 for local residents. Gwadar Port and Free Zone generated 216 jobs, with nearly all positions filled by residents. Large construction projects accounted for a significant share of employment. Around 1,400 workers were engaged during the construction of the Eastbay Expressway (Phase I), while 1,500 workers were involved in development near the Gwadar Technical and Vocational Institute. Water and urban development projects also created jobs. The Gwadar desalination plant employed about 330 workers, and water treatment and supply facilities generated 320 jobs, most of them for locals. Healthcare and community CPEC projects added further employment. The Pak-China Friendship Hospital in Gwadar created 515 jobs, while smaller projects such as schools and road infrastructure contributed additional positions.

Who benefits from these jobs?

A substantial portion of the CPEC jobs has been allocated to residents of Balochistan. In several projects, local hiring either met or exceeded quotas set by the federal government. For example, most positions at Gwadar Port and the Bostan Special Economic Zone were filled by local residents. Similarly, hundreds of jobs in construction, healthcare, and public services were provided to people from nearby districts. However, the share of local employment varies by project, with some large infrastructure projects employing a mix of local and non-local workers.

What jobs are expected in future phases?

An additional 10,425 jobs are projected under upcoming and pipeline projects. The Bostan Special Economic Zone is expected to generate the largest share, with around 8,030 new jobs linked to industrial units planned for the area. Other projects include the Saindak copper and gold mining project, which is expected to create about 1,120 jobs, most of them for residents of Chagai district and surrounding areas. Energy and urban development projects are also expected to contribute. A planned 300MW coal power plant in Gwadar could generate around 575 jobs, while environmental and sanitation systems in the city may create both temporary construction jobs and permanent operational roles. Additional employment is also expected from expanded water treatment and supply projects in Gwadar.

What happens next?

Many of the projected jobs depend on the timely implementation of planned projects. Construction timelines, investment flows, and operational phases will determine how quickly these positions are created. As CPEC projects move forward, employment outcomes will continue to be shaped by project execution and policies related to local hiring and workforce development.