Pakistan’s maritime sector has reached a remarkable milestone, with the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) announcing record container throughput than 2.651 million TEUs for the current fiscal year.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry hailed the achievement as a leap beyond last year’s record, reflecting growing confidence in the nation’s shipping capabilities and the effectiveness of operational reforms.

KPT Chairman Admiral Shahid Ahmad emphasised that the port’s ability to handle rising trade volumes directly supports Pakistan’s economic ambitions. Ongoing reforms and infrastructure upgrades have strengthened cargo and container traffic, consolidating Karachi Port’s role as the country’s premier trade hub.

Minister Chaudhry noted that improved efficiency will enhance Pakistan’s competitiveness in global shipping markets.

The government remains committed to further investment in maritime infrastructure, while increased transhipment activity, driven by regional geopolitical shifts, continues to boost cargo flows at Karachi and Gwadar.

In a forward looking move, KPT has signed a memorandum with the Saudi Business Council and other stakeholders to develop a Maritime Business District on prime waterfront land in Karachi.

Meanwhile, the Economic Coordination Committee has approved the restructuring of the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC), including the sale of a 30% stake and the transfer of management to the National Logistics Corporation (NLC), a step expected to improve efficiency amid expanding opportunities.

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, speaking to foreign media, underscored the surge in cargo volumes, noting that in some months throughput exceeded the total handled in the entire previous year.

He stressed that this temporary shift in trade flows must become a sustained trend.

If Pakistan’s deep sea ports continue to operate effectively as alternative shipping routes, they could capture a larger share of regional cargo and transit volumes.