New one-window facility aims to streamline port services, reduce delays and lower costs for exporters and importers
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has proposed establishing a Maritime Business Facilitation Centre to bring port-related services for exporters and importers under one roof and improve the efficiency of trade procedures.
The minister made the proposal while chairing a meeting to review progress on projects linked to Pakistan’s ports. He said the proposed centre would provide businesses with a single point of access to multiple maritime and port-related services, helping reduce procedural delays and administrative bottlenecks.
Under the proposed arrangement, representatives of relevant organisations would be available at the centre, with a dedicated focal person from each institution assigned to assist businesses. An integrated system connected with the respective head offices would allow applications and cases to be processed and tracked more efficiently.
According to the minister, the initiative could help businesses reduce costs associated with trucking, containers, storage, demurrage, vessel delays and administrative procedures. The facility would be particularly beneficial for exporters, importers and first-time users who may otherwise have to visit multiple offices to complete port-related processes.
Centre Could Improve Revenue Collection
Chaudhry also highlighted the potential financial benefits of standardising port procedures. He said improved coordination and streamlined processes could strengthen fee collection and reduce leakages.
Higher trade volumes could also generate additional revenue through port services, cargo handling, customs-related activities and associated logistics, he added.
The proposed centre is therefore aimed not only at facilitating businesses but also at improving coordination among organisations operating across Pakistan’s maritime sector.
Stakeholders to Help Shape Proposal
The minister has called a meeting with government departments and maritime-sector stakeholders to gather recommendations on the structure and operation of the proposed centre.
The meeting will include officials from the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Karachi Port, Port Qasim, Gwadar Port, Marine Fisheries Department and Korangi Fish Harbour. Representatives from banks, shipping lines, clearing and forwarding agents, fisheries associations and other private-sector organisations will also participate.
Chaudhry directed officials to consult all relevant stakeholders and incorporate their recommendations into the proposal. The objective is to ensure that the planned facility addresses the practical and operational requirements of businesses involved in international trade.