Pakistan has announced major tariff reductions at Gwadar Port to attract global transit and transshipment traffic amid rising tensions in the Gulf.
The government says overall charges have been reduced by up to 60%, with new incentives aimed at lowering shipping costs and increasing cargo handling.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced a significant reduction in tariffs at Gwadar Port.
Berthing fees for container ships have been reduced by 25%. Port charges on transit container cargo have been cut by 31%, while charges on international transshipment containers have been reduced by 40%.
Free storage extended
The government has also introduced a major facility for general cargo. Free storage at Gwadar Port has been increased from five days to one month.
Officials say the move will provide major relief to ships carrying transit and transshipment cargo.
In an exclusive interview with Samaa TV, Maritime Affairs Minister Junaid Anwar said Pakistan wants to achieve long-term gains instead of taking temporary advantage of the difficult situation created by the Gulf War.
“We want to do big things with minor profits and big turnover,” he said.
He added that port charges had been reduced by up to 60% so shipping companies would see Pakistan and its ports as a strong future option.
Minister rejects opportunistic approach
Chaudhry said Pakistan had acted with business foresight rather than opportunism.
“Many people say that you can earn money on this. I was not in favor of it at all,” he said.
He added that difficult times should be used to attract business, not to overcharge clients. “I don’t think taking advantage of people in a crisis is a good business strategy,” the minister said.
Gwadar to become regional logistics hub
The minister said record incentives are being offered at Gwadar compared with other national ports. He said the government is implementing a policy to make Gwadar a regional logistics hub.
According to him, the new tariff structure is expected to significantly reduce operational costs for shipping lines.
The minister said lower costs would help increase cargo handling at Gwadar Port and accelerate economic activity. He said the initiative is also expected to create new employment opportunities and expand Pakistan’s logistics sector.
Gwadar Port Chairman Noorul Haq Baloch said the tariff reduction would increase job opportunities in Balochistan. He added that the new tariff structure would promote maritime trade.
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