Karachi, July 20, 2024 – The Karachi Customs Agents Association (KCAA) has commended shipping companies for their decision to operate on Saturdays to issue delivery orders.
This initiative, starting on July 20, 2024, was met with approval from various stakeholders within the trade community.
KCAA General Secretary Mehmood ul Hasan Awan expressed his gratitude towards the shipping companies for remaining open on Saturdays, following a meeting with businessmen chaired by Karachi Port Trust Chairman, Syed Syedain Raza Zaidi. This move aligns with the recent directive from the Prime Minister to legislate and establish a Regulatory Authority for Shipping & Logistics.
“This initiative was undertaken by the shipping companies as decided in a meeting with businessmen chaired by the Chairman of Karachi Port Trust, Syed Syedain Raza Zaidi, in line with the recent decision of the Honorable Prime Minister for legislation and the establishment of a Regulatory Authority for Shipping & Logistics,” Awan stated. He added that the duration of this arrangement would be reviewed after one month and could be extended based on its impact and the business community’s requirements.
Awan highlighted the collaborative efforts of various organizations and individuals, including the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI), Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), All Pakistan Shipping Association, Pakistan Ship’s Agents Association, Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Karachi Port Trust, and the All Pakistan Customs Agents Association. He particularly acknowledged the contributions of Asif Sakhi (Vice President FPCCI), Khurram Ijaz (Former Vice President FPCCI & Director PSW), and Amir Mansha (Acting President, Karachi Customs Agents Association) for their pivotal roles in making this initiative a reality.
On July 20, 2024, Awan visited the offices of various shipping companies and observed their operations. He noted that the shipping offices were open and effectively facilitating the issuance of delivery orders. He believes this positive approach will significantly benefit the trade community by enabling the clearance of import consignments over the weekends, thereby avoiding unnecessary port demurrages and container detention charges.
The KCAA acknowledges and appreciates the vision and positive approach of the Prime Minister towards trade facilitation. Awan assured the KCAA’s support and cooperation in implementing the decisions taken to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the shipping and logistics sector.
This initiative is expected to streamline the process of issuing delivery orders, providing much-needed relief to importers and traders. By reducing delays and additional costs, the business community can operate more efficiently, contributing to the overall economic growth and stability of the country.
The KCAA’s recognition of the shipping companies’ efforts underscores the importance of collaboration and proactive measures in addressing the needs of the trade community, paving the way for a more efficient and responsive logistics framework in Pakistan.