Customs expands cargo clearance operations as higher trade volumes increase pressure on KICT and SAPT terminals
KARACHI: Pakistan Customs has intensified efforts to ease congestion at Karachi’s two main container terminals by introducing additional clearance measures and operational reforms following a sharp increase in maritime trade activity during July 2026.
The department said rising global trade and the easing of security concerns in the Persian Gulf have led to a noticeable increase in vessel arrivals and container volumes at the Karachi International Container Terminal (KICT) and the South Asia Pakistan Terminal (SAPT), placing greater pressure on port operations.
Vessel arrivals and container volumes rise
Official data showed that combined vessel calls at KICT and SAPT reached 56 vessels between July 1 and July 25, 2026, compared with 49 vessels during the corresponding period last year, representing an increase of 14.3 percent.
Container throughput also increased significantly, with SAPT handling 52,314 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) during the period, up 12 percent year-on-year.
The rise in cargo volumes reflects stronger import and export activity as international trade conditions improve.
Customs expands clearance operations
To prevent delays and minimise congestion, Pakistan Customs has enhanced examination and clearance operations across Karachi ports.
During July 2026, Customs completed 4,298 cargo examinations, compared with 4,007 during the same period last year.
The number of fresh consignments selected for examination also rose by 19.9 percent, reflecting both increased import volumes and strengthened inspection activity.
A senior Pakistan Customs official said the department was working closely with terminal operators and the trading community to ensure cargo continued to move efficiently.
“Pakistan Customs is fully committed to facilitating legitimate trade while maintaining robust regulatory oversight. We have deployed optimal examiner staffing at all ports and have consistently operated on Sundays to ensure the timely clearance of cargo. The current congestion is being monitored daily, and we are coordinating closely with trade representatives and terminal management to resolve the situation by the end of this week.”
Reforms under the Maritime Task Force
Pakistan Customs said several reforms implemented under the Maritime Task Force are helping improve port efficiency and reduce cargo clearance times.
Key initiatives include:
• Shifting more than 2,000 long-pending containers to off-dock facilities to free terminal space.
• Installing scanners at all major ports to facilitate Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) and reduce the need for physical examinations.
• Implementing Faceless Assessment and Faceless Examination systems to accelerate customs processing, improve transparency and lower compliance costs for businesses.
According to the department, these measures have significantly improved operational efficiency while supporting faster cargo movement through Karachi’s ports.
Monitoring regional developments
Pakistan Customs said it will continue coordinating with terminal operators, shipping lines and the business community to maintain efficient port operations and facilitate uninterrupted trade.
Officials added that the department is closely monitoring developments in the Strait of Hormuz, given its importance for Pakistan’s maritime trade and energy imports, and remains prepared to respond to any logistical disruptions arising from regional developments.
The latest initiatives form part of the government’s broader efforts to modernise customs administration, strengthen trade facilitation and enhance Pakistan’s position as a competitive regional trade and logistics hub.