Federal Secretary for Maritime Affairs Capt. Muhammad Khurram Agha (Retd) visited Karachi Port Trust (KPT) to review its operational performance, ongoing development projects and plans to strengthen Pakistan’s maritime trade infrastructure.
KPT Chairman Rear Admiral Shahid Ahmed SI(M), S.Bt (Retd) briefed the federal secretary on the port’s record performance in the 2025–26 fiscal year, modernisation initiatives, capital dredging, transshipment potential and efforts to improve shipping connectivity with Europe.
The briefing also covered investment opportunities, including a proposed 140-acre Maritime Business District aimed at supporting commercial and maritime-related activities.
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Terminal Operations and Investment Plans Reviewed
During visits to Karachi International Container Terminal (KICT), Karachi Gateway Terminal (KGTL/KGTML) and South Asia Pakistan Terminals Limited (SAPTL), terminal operators briefed the secretary on capacity enhancement, technology-driven operations and planned investments.
Officials also discussed the benefits of recently completed dredging works, alongside measures to improve cargo handling, logistics and connectivity with the country’s hinterland.
The discussions highlighted the importance of modern port facilities and efficient cargo movement in supporting Pakistan’s trade and strengthening Karachi Port’s competitiveness.
Focus on Connectivity and Regional Transshipment
The federal secretary appreciated the performance of the port terminals and reaffirmed the Ministry of Maritime Affairs’ commitment to pursuing hinterland connectivity projects and other measures to facilitate trade.
He also emphasised the need to establish additional direct shipping services to major export destinations, helping improve access for Pakistani exporters to international markets.
The secretary underscored the importance of developing Karachi Port Trust into a regional transshipment hub, which could strengthen its role in regional shipping networks and support maritime trade.
The visit formed part of efforts to improve port efficiency, attract investment and enhance Pakistan’s maritime infrastructure to meet growing trade and logistics requirements.
