Call to accelerate work on multi-purpose berths

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has announced a series of major initiatives aimed at boosting cement and clinker exports through the enhancement of port infrastructure and operational capacity, with a particular focus on Port Qasim.

Chairing a meeting, he said a sub-committee representing all major ports, headed by Port Qasim Authority Chairman Rear Admiral Syed Moazzam Ilyas, has finalised key recommendations to accelerate the increase in export capabilities.

The minister underscored the urgent need for expediting the construction of two additional multi-purpose berths at Port Qasim, which would significantly increase the port's capacity to handle export cargo more efficiently.

To support export logistics, plans are also underway to build an additional storage facility at Port Qasim with a capacity of 30,000 metric tons. The project is expected to begin by the end of 2025 after completing necessary formalities, he added.

The minister announced that permanent repair work on the existing storage infrastructure would be undertaken, with completion targeted within four to five months to ensure seamless export operations.

In a significant development, the Port Qasim Authority will collaborate with the All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association for the potential use of the currently underutilised Sahiwal berth for clinker exports.

These measures form part of a broader government strategy to strengthen the maritime sector and enhance export competitiveness, particularly for cement and clinker, which would contribute to economic growth and trade development, the minister stated.