Karachi Port charges slashed by half to improve efficiency

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ISLAMABAD:

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has announced a major 50% reduction in port charges at Karachi Port, aiming to reduce the carbon footprint of trade logistics and foster sustainable growth.

In a statement on Saturday, the minister announced the initiative as part of a broader strategy to decarbonise the maritime sector and improve energy efficiency in port operations. "By lowering operational costs and streamlining logistics, we are not only boosting trade competitiveness but also contributing to climate resilience," he said.

The newly introduced reforms include a 50% cut in port handling, vessel and storage charges, while scrapping the previously planned annual 5% hike in the charges, a move expected to benefit exporters of dry bulk goods and reduce emissions through faster, less congested port activity.

"This isn't just a financial measure; it's a pivot towards low-impact, future-ready maritime trade," said the minister. "A more efficient port reduces idle time for vessels, lowers fuel consumption and supports greener supply chains."

He highlighted that those changes were part of the national strategy to modernise port infrastructure, enhance sustainability and transition towards smart maritime practices.

This announcement follows recent efforts to enhance port efficiency, including the formation of a high-level committee to cut container dwell time by 70% and deployment of advanced technologies such as AI and drones for monitoring operations, which underline the government's proactive stance in modernising maritime trade logistics.

The minister reaffirmed the commitment to aligning the maritime sector with global environmental standards and stated "a resilient economy goes hand-in-hand with environmental responsibility. These reforms reflect the prime minister's vision of a stable, green and globally competitive Pakistan."

As sea levels rise, extreme weather events occur and maritime pollution intensifies, climate adaptation is now being increasingly integrated into trade logistics in a bid to make the country a sustainable maritime hub, he stated.