Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, announced a major 50% reduction in port charges at Karachi Port, aiming to reduce the carbon footprint of trade logistics and foster sustainable growth.
In a statement on Saturday, the minister announced the initiative as part of a broader strategy to decarbonize the maritime sector and improve energy efficiency in port operations. “By lowering operational costs and streamlining logistics, we are not only boosting trade competitiveness but also contributing to climate resilience,” Junaid Chaudhry stated.
The newly introduced reforms include a 50% cut in port handling, vessel, and storage charges, while scrapping the previously planned annual 5% hike in these fees. This move is expected to benefit exporters of dry bulk goods and reduce emissions through faster, less congested port activity.
“This isn’t just a financial measure; it’s a pivot toward low-impact, future-ready maritime trade,” said the minister. “A more efficient port reduces idle time for vessels, lowers fuel consumption, and supports greener supply chains.”
The minister highlighted that these changes are part national strategy to modernize port infrastructure, enhance sustainability, and transition towards smart maritime practices.
This announcement follows recent efforts by the maritime minister to enhance port efficiency, including the formation of a high-level committee to reduce container dwell time by 70% and the deployment of advanced technologies such as AI and drones for monitoring operations, further underlining the government’s proactive stance in modernizing maritime trade logistics.
Junaid Chaudhry reaffirmed his commitment to aligning the maritime sector with global environmental standards, stating: “A resilient economy goes hand-in-hand with environmental responsibility. These reforms reflect the Prime Minister’s vision of a stable, green, and globally competitive Pakistan.”
As sea-level rise, extreme weather events, and maritime pollution intensify, the minister stated that climate adaptation is now being increasingly integrated into trade logistics, part of a broader strategy to establish the country as a sustainable maritime hub in the face of climate change.
