Minister urges port expansion, stronger logistics to meet rising trade demand

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry stressed on Wednesday the need to expand port capacity, fortify logistics networks, and promote feeder services to meet growing trade demands.

He said this while chairing a high-level meeting to assess ports’ preparedness amid the evolving regional situation and devise strategies to position Pakistani ports as a premier regional transit and transshipment hub, as per a statement.

“The meeting brought together major stakeholders including shipping lines and terminal operators to ensure seamless maritime trade, boost operational efficiency, enhance feeder connectivity, and streamline business procedures,” said the statement.

During the meeting, discussions were held on regulatory challenges, digitization, stakeholder coordination, and opportunities to attract regional cargo, with emphasis on promoting Karachi as a reliable maritime gateway.

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“The government is implementing practical measures to transform Pakistani ports into a key regional transshipment center, adopting a coordinated stakeholder approach.

“Ongoing efforts aim to refine the regulatory framework, resolve issues like detention charges, and increase terminal handling capacity through strategies aligned with modern operational needs,” the minister said.