CM Maryam invites Japanese firms to invest in Punjab’s SEZs

Tokyo (Web Desk): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, along with her official delegation, held an important meeting with senior officials at Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry during her visit to Tokyo. The primary focus of the discussions was enhancing cooperation in sectors such as transportation, agriculture, industry, environment, public health, and information technology through the adoption of Japanese expertise.

CM Maryam extended a formal invitation to Japanese companies to establish manufacturing and assembly plants for hydrogen-powered and hybrid vehicles in Punjab. She highlighted the province’s interest in acquiring Japanese agricultural innovations — including tractors, super seeders, threshers, and other state-of-the-art farming machinery — to support and modernize Punjab’s agriculture sector.

The Chief Minister also encouraged Japanese participation in Punjab’s Special Economic Zones, offering opportunities in both manufacturing and supply chain development. She outlined a comprehensive plan aimed at providing farmers with all essential agricultural equipment and products from a single, streamlined platform.

To attract international investors, Maryam Nawaz pointed out that Punjab has created a dedicated investor facilitation desk, eliminating bureaucratic red tape. She stressed that both the Punjab Board of Investment and the federal-level Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) are fully committed to supporting foreign investments in the region.

She also invited Japanese tech firms to invest in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and gaming at the Nawaz Sharif IT City, and presented opportunities for Japanese collaboration in the healthcare sector through projects in the Nawaz Sharif Medical District.

CM Maryam emphasized her ambition to fast-track Punjab’s progress by learning from Japan’s technological advancements and transforming the province into a preferred hub for business and innovation. She added that efforts are underway to develop both green and small industrial zones to promote sustainable economic growth.

Japan’s Senior Deputy Minister for International Affairs, Matsuiwataki Heko, warmly welcomed the Chief Minister and her team. He commended the Punjab government’s proactive approach to strengthening ties with Japan and applauded its investor-friendly policies and long-term vision for development.