During a meeting with the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) on Tuesday, Maritime Affairs Minister Qaisar Ahmed Sheikh announced a significant move to support the export sector by halving wharfage charges for exporters at Karachi Port and Port Qasim.

The decision comes amidst mounting criticism from the business community regarding the substantial increase in cargo handling charges by terminal operators, notably Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited, which acquired ten berths at Karachi Port last year. Minister Sheikh assured that measures would be taken to regulate terminal charges and prevent unauthorized hikes.

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Expressing confidence in the coalition government’s ability to steer the economy towards recovery, Sheikh also unveiled plans to enhance and develop the country’s port infrastructure. Senior Vice President of FPCCI, Saqib Fayyaz Magoon, proposed innovative solutions to alleviate congestion caused by heavy imports, suggesting the creation of an elevated track within the port area. Additionally, Magoon advocated for the formulation of a comprehensive shipping policy in collaboration with industry stakeholders.