LAHORE: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the immediate release of all containers stuck at ports and announced that port operations will now remain open on Sundays to facilitate trade and commerce.
his directive comes in response to the urgent appeal made by Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) President Mian Abuzar Shad.
In a high-level meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz, LCCI President Mian Abuzar Shad highlighted the severe disruptions caused by the prolonged delays in clearing thousands of containers stranded at ports. These bureaucratic hurdles were negatively impacting supply chains, raising operational costs, and leading to raw material shortages for industries across Pakistan. In response, Shehbaz issued immediate orders to ensure the smooth release of all detained shipments, aiming to stabilize the economy and facilitate business activities.
Vice President of the SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mian Anjum Nisar, also emphasized the importance of this decision. He stated, “This timely intervention by Prime Minister Shehbaz will bring immense relief to importers, manufacturers, and exporters. The reduction in clearance delays at ports will lower financial strain on businesses and enhance industrial productivity.”
In another landmark move, Shehbaz accepted LCCI’s longstanding demand to keep ports operational seven days a week. This strategic step is expected to significantly improve trade efficiency, accelerate shipment clearance, reduce port congestion, and lower demurrage costs for businesses. The decision is particularly beneficial for exporters adhering to tight international shipping schedules, manufacturers relying on imported raw materials, and traders needing timely deliveries of goods.
LCCI President Mian Abuzar Shad lauded Shehbaz’s proactive approach, calling it a “historic milestone in trade facilitation.” He asserted that keeping ports operational on Sundays would eliminate unnecessary delays, streamline business operations, and enhance Pakistan’s global competitiveness.
Shehbaz reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the business community and directed relevant ministries to collaborate with LCCI to implement additional reforms. He emphasized that a seamless port operation system is crucial for sustained economic growth and investor confidence.
Expressing deep gratitude, Mian Abuzar Shad praised Shehbaz’s swift decision-making, stating that such proactive governance reassures both local and international investors about Pakistan’s commitment to a business-friendly environment.
The LCCI pledged to continue working as a bridge between the government and the private sector to push forward economic reforms. Mian Abuzar Shad reiterated LCCI’s dedication to facilitating trade, advocating for industrial growth, and ensuring that Pakistan moves towards a more robust, investment-friendly economy.
This special meeting between Shehbaz and LCCI representatives marks a crucial step in strengthening trade facilitation, improving business conditions, and fostering economic growth through efficient port management.