ISLAMABAD: A US delegation visited the Ministry of Maritime Affairs on Tuesday, where they were received by Federal Secretary Syed Zafar Ali Shah. During the meeting, the secretary briefed the delegation on Pakistan’s port facilities, operational capacities, business models, cooperation opportunities and maritime connectivity.
The delegation was informed that Karachi Port operates three private container terminals, one private bulk terminal, three liquid cargo berths, an environmentally friendly cement export facility, and 13 dry cargo berths. Karachi Port currently handles 54 percent of Pakistan’s trade, with an annual capacity of 125 million tonnes. It improved its global ranking to 61st among 405 container ports in 2023. The port recently managed the country’s largest vessel, measuring 400 metres.
Discussions highlighted potential cooperation opportunities at Port Qasim. These included investment prospects in bulk, break-bulk, and containerised cargo handling, as well as off-dock terminals. The Port Qasim Authority (PQA) chairman shared details of ongoing projects. These include dredging of navigation channels, commissioning of an alternate route, dualisation of a 26-kilometre main access road, and installation of effluent treatment plants in industrial zones.
Future plans for Port Qasim involve the development of a coastal economic zone and two LNG terminals on a build-operate-transfer basis. Other projects include the construction of a shipyard, multipurpose cargo terminals, an integrated container terminal, and a second oil terminal with storage facilities. The port operates around the clock for ship handling and cargo evacuation via road and rail. Infrastructure upgrades are underway to enhance logistics and connectivity.
The delegation was also briefed on Gwadar Port’s strategic location, tourism potential, infrastructure projects, and special economic zones. The US delegation expressed keen interest in all three ports, particularly in LNG terminals and bulk cargo handling. They recognised the strategic importance of Pakistan’s ports as a significant opportunity for the country’s economic development.