Islamabad 13 August: Deputy Prime Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar led a high-level meeting on to evaluate the operational efficiency of Pakistan’s ports.
The aim of the meeting was to alleviate congestion, boost trade facilitation, and cuts Karachi Port charges by 50% to enhance imports, exports, and economic growth.
The meeting, held at the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, focused on proposals to improve efficiency, reduce vessel turnaround times, and streamline cargo handling processes. Senator Dar emphasized the importance of modernizing port infrastructure and optimizing operations to strengthen Pakistan’s role in regional and global trade networks.
Key attendees included Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Bajwa, Secretary Pakistan Railways Syed Mazhar Ali Shah, Major General Farrukh Shahzad of the National Logistics Corporation, representatives from the Special Investment Facilitation Council, the Additional Secretary of Maritime Affairs, and other senior officials.
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The review follows the government’s July 19 decision to slash port charges at Karachi Port by 50%, a move designed to reduce trade logistics’ carbon footprint and promote sustainable economic growth. Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced that the reforms include halving port handling, vessel, and storage fees, alongside eliminating a planned 5% annual fee increase. These measures aim to benefit dry bulk exporters and reduce emissions through faster, less congested port operations.
