GEOECONOMIC REALIGNMENT IN SOUTH ASIA: PAKISTAN’S STRATEGIC POSITION IN POST-BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE TRADE CORRIDORS

Abstract

This study examined the geoeconomic realignment in South Asia by analyzing Pakistan’s strategic position within post-Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) trade corridors. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was employed, with data collected from 200 professionals and experts in trade, logistics, and economic policy using a structured questionnaire. Key variables included trade corridor development, infrastructure connectivity, regional trade integration, institutional challenges, and geoeconomic positioning. Statistical techniques such as descriptive analysis, correlation, regression, and mediation analysis were applied to test the proposed relationships. The findings revealed that trade corridor development and infrastructure connectivity significantly enhance Pakistan’s geoeconomic position, while regional trade integration plays a crucial mediating role. Conversely, institutional challenges and regional competition were found to negatively affect Pakistan’s ability to fully benefit from emerging trade corridors. The results highlight that infrastructure investments alone are insufficient without effective governance, policy alignment, and integration into regional trade networks. The study contributes to geoeconomic literature by providing empirical evidence on the interplay between connectivity, trade integration, and strategic positioning. It also offers practical insights for policymakers to strengthen Pakistan’s role as a regional trade and logistics hub. However, limitations related to the cross-sectional design and reliance on perceptual data suggest the need for further longitudinal and comparative research.