PM Shehbaz calls for modernising Karachi ports to boost regional trade

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is in Karachi today for a day-long trip to review the city's port operations and to meet with key business leaders, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said in a statement.

During the visit, PM Shehbaz visited Karachi Port Trust (KPT) to receive detailed briefings on the operations of Pakistan’s ports and the national flag carrier, Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC). During his visit, he emphasised the critical strategic importance of Pakistan in the region.

"Pakistan offers the most suitable maritime trade route for Central Asian states," the premier stated, referencing his recent discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin and leaders of Central Asian countries during his visit to Kazakhstan.

He noted the keen interest of Central Asian states in utilising Pakistani ports for their trade.

The prime minister said, "With modern systems and improved access to our ports, Pakistan can earn billions in foreign exchange."

He emphasised the development of value-added industries to boost exports, particularly through the advancement of Karachi’s ports.

The PM directed the installation of modern equipment and machinery at Port Qasim and Karachi Port Trust to reduce customs clearance times.

He also called for the immediate installation of advanced scanning machinery at the ports to enhance operational efficiency.

To ensure uninterrupted cargo delivery, he instructed that the Lyari Expressway remain open 24/7 for cargo traffic and proposed connecting the Malir Expressway to the port. He also emphasised increasing rail capacity for cargo transport to and from Karachi Port.

PM Shehbaz directed that LNG ship fees at Port Qasim be adjusted to international rates and urged for a comprehensive plan to regulate shipping lines.

He also instructed PNSC to develop a plan to reduce costs and enhance operational efficiency.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to private sector growth, ease of doing business, and facilitating investors, highlighting that Pakistan’s economy is stable and progressing.

The meeting, held to review the operations of KPT, Port Qasim Authority (PQA), and PNSC, was attended by federal ministers, provincial officials, and top authorities, including Federal Ministers Muhammad Aurangzeb, Jam Kamal Khan, Ahsan Iqbal, Governor Sindh Kamran Tessori, Chief Minister Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah, and chairpersons of KPT, PQA, and PNSC. Prime Minister Sharif also directed KPT to present a comparative report on the performance of regional ports.