Karachi, March 25, 2026 – Pakistan is positioning itself to attract regional transshipment cargo by offering reduced port charges and improved facilitation measures, as authorities respond to shifting trade dynamics amid ongoing regional tensions.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the government is focused on enhancing competitiveness at ports to capture foreign cargo transshipment opportunities. He made these remarks while chairing a high-level meeting reviewing operational challenges faced by importers and exporters.
The minister emphasized that Pakistan can benefit from evolving regional trade patterns if it maintains a business-friendly environment and efficient maritime infrastructure. He noted that fiscal incentives have already been introduced to encourage foreign-flagged vessels to use Pakistani ports.
Incentives to Boost Transshipment
Under the new policy measures, vessels carrying dry bulk export cargo will receive up to 60% concession on port dues. These incentives are aimed at lowering operational costs, improving port throughput, and attracting more international shipping activity to the country.
Authorities have also urged customs officials and terminal operators to streamline procedures and rationalize charges to further facilitate trade and reduce bottlenecks at ports.
High-Level Stakeholder Meeting
The meeting included senior officials from the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, representatives from the Ministry of Commerce, Karachi Port Trust, Pakistan Customs, National Logistics Corporation, terminal operators, and the Pakistan Ships’ Agents Association.
Participants discussed key issues such as regional competition in port dues, container scanning, customs clearance delays, and the handling of auctionable containers. The minister directed all stakeholders to improve coordination and accelerate decision-making to resolve longstanding operational challenges.
Strong Port Performance Highlighted
Chaudhry also praised Karachi Port Trust Chairman Rear Admiral (retd) Shahid Ahmed for maintaining uninterrupted operations during the Eid holidays. According to officials, approximately 15,000 containers and 22 vessels were handled over a three-day period, ensuring smooth trade flow for importers and exporters.
Container Clearance and Operational Challenges
Officials noted that around 1,000 containers have already been auctioned, while the auction of an additional 200 containers is underway. However, nearly 3,700 containers still require clearance to free up port space.
To address storage constraints, Karachi Port Trust has allocated 10 acres of land for auctioned containers. Meanwhile, stakeholders highlighted concerns over long-pending containers, some of which have remained at terminals for up to 15 years due to legal and procedural issues.
A representative of Karachi International Container Terminal (KICT) suggested introducing a maximum storage time limit to prevent congestion and improve efficiency.
Commitment to Trade Growth
The government reiterated its commitment to resolving stakeholder concerns, improving port efficiency, and strengthening Pakistan’s role as a regional transshipment hub. Officials believe that with the right policy support and operational reforms, Pakistani ports can play a key role in boosting trade connectivity and economic activity.