PM Shehbaz tours Karachi's Hutchison Port, South Asia Terminal during one-day visit

Briefing highlights terminal's adoption of modern operational methods, predominantly automated, to enhance efficiency

KARACHI:

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif conducted a one-day tour of Karachi, during which he visited the Hutchison Port, South Asia Pakistan Terminal (SAPT). He received a detailed briefing on the terminal's operations, highlighting its status as one of the world's deepest-water terminals located in Karachi.

According to a press release issued by the PM's Office, the briefing underscored the terminal's adoption of modern operational methods, predominantly automated, to enhance efficiency.

New technologies and advanced scanners have recently been installed at the port terminal to align operations with international standards. During the visit, it was revealed that the port has the capacity to handle up to 3.5 million containers annually.

PM Shehbaz expressed appreciation for the innovative operations implemented at Hutchison Port, South Asia Terminal. He directed the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) chairman to prioritise the installation of the latest scanners at Pakistani ports.

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It was informed that the installation of new scanners at ports by the FBR is nearing completion, which will enable swift scanning of containers utilising modern equipment and artificial intelligence. Assurances were given by port authorities regarding collaboration efforts aimed at fully maximising the port's operational capacity.

The PM emphasised the pivotal role of port development in advancing Pakistan's export industry. He reiterated the government's commitment to prioritising initiatives aimed at boosting national exports.

Furthermore, it was stated that the government is actively working to establish efficient maritime routes, particularly to facilitate trade with Central Asian states, China, and other global partners through Pakistani ports.

Federal Ministers Muhammad Aurangzeb, Attaullah Tarar, Jam Kamal Khan, Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, Ahad Khan Cheema, Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori, and Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah accompanied the prime minister during the tour.