Pakistan has approved new measures to strengthen its maritime sector and boost its position as a regional transshipment hub. The announcements were made following recommendations from a high-level committee led by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry.
Officials said the new measures aim to capitalize on shifting regional trade routes caused by evolving geopolitical and security dynamics. They are expected to enhance port efficiency and attract global shipping lines.
One of the key new measures includes approval for handling bulk and break-bulk transshipment cargo. This step will allow efficient movement of commodities such as grains, coal, minerals, and project cargo. It is expected to increase port throughput and strengthen Pakistan’s trade links in the region.
Another major decision is the approval of specialized Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) transshipment operations. This will enable the handling of vehicles including cars, SUVs, and other wheeled cargo. The initiative is designed to streamline automotive logistics, reduce handling times, and position Pakistan as a central hub for vehicle distribution.
Additionally, the government approved handling of Less than Container Load (LCL) cargo under transshipment arrangements. This will allow consolidation and redistribution of smaller shipments, providing traders with greater flexibility and boosting Pakistan’s appeal to global freight forwarders.
Authorities highlighted that these new measures will also benefit transit cargo for landlocked Central Asian countries, further strengthening regional connectivity. The initiatives are expected to increase port revenues, create jobs in logistics, and integrate Pakistan more deeply into global supply chains.
The Minister for Maritime Affairs emphasized the government’s focus on modernizing port infrastructure, streamlining regulations, and fostering an investor-friendly environment. Officials said these steps reflect a strategic vision to leverage Pakistan’s geostrategic location and transform its ports into engines of economic growth.
Overall, the implementation of these new measures marks a significant shift in Pakistan’s maritime policy, promising enhanced regional trade, economic opportunities, and a stronger maritime footprint for the country.
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