Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, on Monday announced significant reductions in tariff rates at Gwadar Port to strengthen its position as a regional logistics and transshipment hub.
In an official statement, the minister said the revised tariff policy aims to increase transit and international transshipment container traffic while attracting global shipping companies and improving overall port activity.
Reduced charges for shipping and cargo
According to the minister, berthing charges for container vessels and ships carrying transit or transshipment cargo have been reduced by 25 percent.
Charges on international transshipment container cargo have been cut by 40 percent, while fees on transit container cargo have been lowered by 31 percent.
“These incentives take effect immediately, and further adjustments will be reviewed in phases based on operational data and market response,” the minister stated.
Free storage facility introduced
As part of the new incentives, Gwadar Port will also offer one month of free storage for general cargo.
The facility provides a major advantage compared to the standard five-day free storage period available at other national ports.
Officials believe the move will improve cargo handling efficiency and encourage greater commercial activity through the port.
Gwadar positioned as regional trade gateway
Junaid Chaudhry said the measures are part of a broader strategy to transform Gwadar into a modern and investor-friendly deep-sea port serving as a strategic trade gateway for Central Asia, the Middle East and East Africa.
He noted that growing demand for low-cost and congestion-free shipping routes has created an opportunity for Gwadar to capture a larger share of regional trade flows.
According to the minister, the revised tariff structure is expected to reduce operational costs for shipping lines, encourage new feeder and transshipment services and increase cargo throughput.
Employment opportunities expected in Balochistan
Meanwhile, Noorul Haq Baloch said the revised tariff structure is expected to generate employment opportunities in Balochistan by increasing business and commercial activity.
He stated that lower fees and improved port facilities would attract both local and foreign investors, accelerating economic development in the region.
Officials added that the initiative would also help expand Pakistan’s logistics and maritime sectors while stimulating broader economic activity nationwide.