Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC), the national flag carrier, has expanded its fleet from 10 to 12 vessels with the addition of two Aframax-class tankers, Swan Lake and P Aliki, boosting maritime and energy transport capacity.
According to a statement released Thursday, PNSC Chief Executive Officer Zarar Hussain briefed Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry during a meeting attended by Maritime Secretary Syed Zafar Ali Shah, senior officials, and the heads of Karachi Port Trust and Port Qasim Authority.
Chaudhry said the induction of the two Aframax tankers raises PNSC's fleet to 12 ships, reaffirming the government's commitment to strengthen the national shipping sector. He also announced plans to expand the fleet further to 20 vessels by year-end.
He underlined PNSC's vital role in transporting crude oil and petroleum products, stressing that Aframax tankers, with capacities of 80,000 to 120,000 deadweight tonnes, are widely preferred for their ability to access ports not suitable for larger Very Large Crude Carriers. The expansion, he added, would enhance Pakistan's ability to efficiently manage rising energy imports.
The minister acknowledged that Pakistan depends on imports for nearly 70% of its energy needs, mainly crude oil and refined products. He said increasing the national fleet would reduce reliance on foreign shipping lines, which currently cost the country about $4.6 billion annually in freight payments. By moving more cargo through its own vessels, PNSC could save foreign exchange, generate higher revenue, and strengthen energy security, he said, as per the statement.
The maritime minister also noted that PNSC is actively exploring new business opportunities at home and abroad as part of wider efforts to revitalise the maritime economy and build resilience in supply chains against external shocks.
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