Chairman of the Prime Minister's Maritime Task Force Iftikhar Rao on Thursday said Pakistan's major ports have recorded significant improvements in global rankings following wide-ranging reforms, as the government moves to strengthen the country's maritime economy and position it as a regional trade hub.
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Rao said nearly 80% of global trade is conducted through sea routes, making reforms in Pakistan's maritime sector essential for economic growth.
He said the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) improved its global ranking by 30 places, rising from 99th to 69th within a year.
According to Rao, Port Qasim also climbed 18 places in global rankings and was included among the world's most improved ports.
Reforms underway
Rao said the government had accelerated reforms on the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif through a dedicated implementation committee.
He said the committee has so far held 13 meetings and 15 focus group sessions, while work is underway on a national master plan to ensure all ports operate under a coordinated strategy.
The reforms include:
- Installation of modern container scanners
- Increased customs staffing
- Extended operational hours
- Improvements in customs clearance, terminal operations, plant protection and quality control
He said these measures had significantly enhanced port efficiency.
Shipbuilding receives boost
Rao said Karachi Shipyard is currently constructing defence vessels, including frigates and missile craft, while commercial shipbuilding has also resumed.
For the first time in decades, construction has begun on a commercial container ship for the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC), with the project costing several million dollars less than comparable international projects.
Tax relief for shipping sector
The chairman said the government has abolished sales tax on ships and shipbuilding equipment in the latest federal budget to encourage investment in Pakistan's shipping industry.
He said the move would support local shipbuilding, attract private investment and encourage Pakistani shipowners to register their vessels in Pakistan instead of overseas.
Regional trade ambitions
Rao said the ongoing reforms would strengthen Pakistan's maritime sector, improve the global competitiveness of its ports and help transform the country into a regional hub for trade and the blue economy.
