Pakistan approves new measures to boost maritime trade

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has approved a series of measures aimed at strengthening its maritime sector and positioning the country as a regional transshipment hub.

The decisions were taken following recommendations by a high-level committee formed by the prime minister of Pakistan and led by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry.

Officials said the move comes as regional trade routes continue to shift due to evolving geopolitical and security dynamics.

Key Approvals:

1. Approval of Bulk and Break-Bulk Transshipment Cargo

The Government has granted approval for the handling of bulk and break-bulk cargo under transshipment arrangements. This measure is expected to significantly enhance port throughput, attract new shipping lines, and facilitate regional trade by enabling efficient movement of commodities such as grains, coal, minerals, and project cargo.

2. Approval for Specialized Ro-Ro Transshipment Operations

In another major breakthrough, approval has been accorded for the transshipment of vehicles through specialized Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessels. This includes the handling of cars, SUVs, and other wheeled cargo. The initiative is poised to open new avenues for the automotive logistics sector, reduce handling times, and position Pakistan as a key node in regional vehicle distribution networks.

3. Approval of LCL (Less than Container Load) Cargo Handling for Transshipment

The Government has also approved the handling of LCL cargo under transshipment operations. This will enable consolidation and redistribution of smaller consignments, offering greater flexibility to traders and significantly boosting Pakistan’s attractiveness for global freight forwarders and logistics providers.

This new initiative will not only boost transshipment but facilitate the transit cargo for land locked neighboring Central Asian countries.

Authorities believe the steps will help increase port revenues, generate employment in logistics and related sectors, and improve Pakistan’s integration into global supply chains and enhance the country’s strategic maritime footprint.

The Minister for Maritime Affairs reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to modernizing port infrastructure, streamlining regulatory frameworks, and fostering an investor-friendly environment to unlock the full potential of Pakistan’s maritime sector.

This “mega announcement” reflects the Government’s forward-looking vision to leverage Pakistan’s geostrategic location and transform its ports into engines of economic growth and regional connectivity.