Karachi, June 10, 2025 – The Karachi Customs Agents Association (KCAA) has issued a strong statement expressing serious concern over the escalating backlog of import containers at the Karachi International Container Terminal (KICT), warning of mounting delays, financial losses, and deteriorating service standards that are hampering trade operations.
In a formal communication released Tuesday, the KCAA highlighted persistent operational inefficiencies at KICT, stating that the backlog of containers awaiting examination and clearance is growing daily. “We wish to draw immediate attention to the delays in container grounding at KICT. Despite repeated follow-ups from our members, there has been no significant improvement in operations,” the KCAA noted. A copy of the Daily Examination & Grounding Report of KICT was also submitted for reference.
The KCAA emphasized that even container numbers submitted for priority grounding are not being handled in a timely manner. In addition, the association has observed that the labor force responsible for arranging containers for examination is either insufficient or uncoordinated, further worsening delays. This operational lag is inflicting substantial financial strain on the trading community in the form of rising port demurrage and container detention charges.
Moreover, the KCAA reported that containers remain in the examination area for extended periods post-inspection due to delays in sealing and relocation. This disrupts overall workflow efficiency and adds to congestion within the terminal. The association also criticized the inadequate space currently allocated for the examination of A-class cargo, urging KICT to expand and upgrade the area to meet growing demands.
Shortages of essential cargo-handling equipment and labor for de-stuffing and re-stuffing activities were also highlighted as critical bottlenecks. According to KCAA, these resource gaps at KICT are severely impeding the clearance process and lowering operational standards.
Of equal concern are repeated reports of theft, pilferage, and mishandling of cargo at KICT, raising serious security and accountability questions. The KCAA called for the immediate implementation of strict safety measures to protect cargo and regain the confidence of stakeholders.
The KCAA has cautioned that if the current pace of operations persists, it may be forced to reconsider its working relationship with KICT. The association demands swift action to accelerate container grounding and requests that port demurrage charges be waived in cases where delays are caused by KICT’s inefficiencies. Immediate corrective measures, the KCAA warned, are vital to prevent further disruption to Pakistan’s import trade.