Karachi, March 13, 2026 – Pakistan has launched a new feeder shipping service linking Karachi Port with major ports in the United Arab Emirates to strengthen maritime connectivity and support the country’s growing trade sector.
The announcement was made by Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, who said the new service marks an important step toward enhancing Pakistan’s transshipment capabilities.
According to the minister, Karachi Gateway Terminal (Private) Limited (KGTL), a major business partner of Karachi Port Trust (KPT), will operate the feeder service connecting Karachi with the UAE ports of Port of Fujairah and Port of Khor Fakkan.
Strengthening regional maritime connectivity
The new shipping link establishes a regular service between Karachi and two of the region’s major transshipment hubs. This will allow Pakistani importers and exporters to maintain reliable access to global container shipping networks.
The minister said the service will call at KGTL, which operates under the international port operating arm of AD Ports Group through its subsidiary Noatum Ports.
The first vessel under the new feeder service arrived at Karachi Gateway Terminal on the evening of March 11, officially marking the start of regular operations.
Boost for Pakistan’s trade and supply chains
Officials said the feeder link will support supply chain continuity through Karachi Port and ensure Pakistan’s trade maintains dependable access to international markets.
Cargo transported through Fujairah and Khor Fakkan will benefit from efficient connectivity to regional and global shipping networks. The UAE’s advanced logistics infrastructure will also allow containers to be quickly transferred through integrated road and rail corridors to major commercial hubs across the country.
Port authorities welcome initiative
Rear Admiral Shahid Ahmed (Retd.), chairman of Karachi Port Trust, said the new service will strengthen the port’s connectivity with key regional hubs and support Pakistan’s increasing trade requirements.
He noted that stronger maritime links with the UAE will help facilitate smoother cargo movement while providing greater flexibility for Pakistan’s trading community.
Meanwhile, Khurram Aziz Khan, Chief Executive Officer of Karachi Gateway Terminal, said the feeder service reflects the terminal’s commitment to improving Pakistan’s maritime connectivity.
He added that the direct link between Karachi and UAE transshipment hubs will provide importers and exporters with reliable access to global shipping routes while reinforcing KGTL’s role as an important gateway for international trade.
Enhancing resilience for exporters
Concluding his remarks, the maritime affairs minister said Pakistan’s economy relies heavily on maritime trade, and stronger connections with regional transshipment hubs will provide additional resilience for exporters and the broader trading community.