Pakistan can rise as regional economic power through maritime reforms, says minister

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said on Wednesday that Pakistan could become a rising regional economic power with comprehensive maritime reforms.

Speaking at a seminar on the geopolitical impact on maritime trade in the Indian Ocean region, he highlighted the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean as a key link between the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Europe, according to a statement from the Maritime ministry.

Chaudhry stressed that tensions in the Indian Ocean had far-reaching implications, not just for trade, but for global economies and regional stability.

He outlined the formation of a high-level committee, following directives from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, to transform Karachi Port, Port Qasim, and Gwadar Port into a trans-shipment hub.

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Recent reforms with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) have introduced risk management techniques to replace 100% scanning, cutting clearance times and facilitating operations for small traders. Karachi Port set a new monthly record with 111,300 TEUs of trans-shipment cargo in March.

• A TEU or Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit is an exact unit of measurement used to determine cargo capacity for container ships and terminals. This measurement is derived from the dimensions of a 20ft standardised shipping container.

Port Qasim managed 3,485 TEUs, and Gwadar Port handled its first dedicated trans-shipment shipment, with four such vessels arriving so far, according to the ministry statement.

Chaudhry emphasised that the actions, including reducing charges for exporters and eliminating container congestion, had helped Pakistan build shipping resilience.

He said the country’s ports were ready to face future challenges, ensuring continuity in trade and oil supply.

Karachi Port Trust Chairman Rear Admiral Shahid Ahmed confirmed that four new trains would operate from Karachi Port to Pipri starting September, alongside operational edible oil terminals and ferry services.

He added that Karachi Port was prepared for the next 50 years.

“The government remains focused on strengthening Pakistan’s position as a key maritime trade hub for regional connectivity,” the minister said.