Islamabad, March 5, 2026 – Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry on Thursday chaired a high-level meeting to evaluate emerging logistical challenges facing Pakistan’s trade sector, particularly in the energy supply chain, amid rising geopolitical tensions in the region.
The meeting reviewed potential risks to maritime trade routes and explored opportunities for Pakistan’s ports as global shipping patterns shift due to disruptions in key international waterways. The 11-member committee, constituted on the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has been tasked with formulating a comprehensive strategy to safeguard Pakistan’s maritime trade interests and will submit its recommendations within two days.
Focus on Strengthening Pakistan’s Ports
Speaking during the meeting, Junaid Anwar Chaudhry highlighted that Pakistan’s ports hold significant untapped potential to attract international shipping lines for transshipment operations, which could enhance the long-term growth and sustainability of the maritime sector.
The committee discussed how evolving global trade dynamics could create opportunities for Pakistan, particularly if major international shipping corridors face temporary closures or disruptions. Participants explored measures to position Pakistan as a reliable alternative transit and transshipment destination in the region.
Officials also reviewed proposals for amendments to regulatory frameworks aimed at facilitating international transshipment through on-dock and off-dock terminals, improving operational efficiency, and strengthening ease of doing business for global shipping companies.
Gwadar Port Seen as Strategic Hub
Special attention was given to fully leveraging the potential of Gwadar Port as a regional transshipment hub and positioning it as a strategic alternative during periods of regional instability.
Representatives from key port authorities—including Port Qasim Authority, Karachi Port Trust, and Gwadar Port Authority—joined the meeting via video link and briefed participants on operational readiness. They highlighted available capacity for container transshipment, bulk cargo handling, and marine refueling services.
Committee Members and Policy Recommendations
Members of the committee include Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani, Vice Admiral (R) Iftikhar Ahmed Rao, secretaries from the ministries of maritime affairs, commerce, and petroleum, the chairman of the Federal Board of Revenue, the Director General of the National Logistics Corporation, as well as senior officials from the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Commerce.
Bilal Azhar Kayani emphasized the need for practical, time-bound, and actionable recommendations to effectively address emerging maritime trade challenges and capitalize on potential opportunities.
Concluding the meeting, Junaid Anwar Chaudhry stated that with coordinated planning and timely policy measures, Pakistan can transform its ports into key logistics and transshipment hubs, strengthening the country’s position in global maritime trade while supporting long-term economic growth.