Abstract:
The geo-strategic location, availability of all-weather seaports, and proximity to gigantic inland connectivity projects like CAREC (Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation) and CPEC (China–Pakistan Economic Corridor) can transform Pakistan into a trade and transit hub. Cognizant of the economic potential of regional/global connectivity, state-of-the-art infrastructure and cargo handling facilities are being developed by Government of Pakistan on the border crossing points (BCPs). However, the realization of the envisioned benefits from land trade seems conditional to the effectiveness of leadership/management at BCPs. The simultaneous engagement with multiple stakeholders, social and environmental concerns, and over-riding desire of trade facilitation can best be addressed by leaders through identification and resolution of challenges. Using the Stakeholders’ Theory, this study investigates the leadership and management challenges directly influencing the land trade performance of Pakistan’s BCPs. A total of 25 well experienced experts from public and private sector were interviewed. Drawing on the qualitative insights and the thematic analysis, the study finds that responsible leadership plays a critical role in improving operational efficiency, interagency coordination, implementing reforms, and accountability at the BCPs. Major leadership challenges identified by this study include disjointed decision-making, poor resource allocation, lack of transparency, gaps in rules and regulations, and lack of focus on trade efficiency and competitiveness. The study also finds that responsible leadership can address the challenges thorough creation of trade facilitative organizational climate through improved interagency coordination and enhanced accountability.