KARACHI, May 1, 2026 – Pakistan on Friday marked a milestone in its maritime sector as the first fully transshipment cargo vessel docked at Karachi Port, signaling expanded capacity for regional trade.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the vessel, M.V. ERLIN, berthed at the KGTML terminal of Karachi Port Trust, representing a shift in port operations.
“In the past, Karachi Port handled only container transshipment. Today marks a historic shift, with M.V. ERLIN operating as a transshipment carrier for general cargo, break bulk, and vehicles,” the minister said in a statement.
The development reflects recent reforms in the maritime sector aimed at improving efficiency and boosting Pakistan’s competitiveness in global trade, he added.
The minister said Pakistani ports are now equipped to handle a wider range of transshipment and transit trade cargo, including break bulk shipments for regional destinations.
“This achievement strengthens Pakistan’s position as a regional maritime hub, linking global trade routes and creating new business opportunities,” Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said.
Industry analysts say expanding transshipment capabilities could help Pakistan capture a greater share of regional trade flows, particularly as supply chains shift and demand for diversified logistics routes grows.
The move is expected to enhance port utilization and support economic activity linked to shipping, logistics and trade services.