Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has directed port authorities to implement wide-ranging reforms aimed at reducing cargo dwell time, eliminating unnecessary laboratory testing, and improving overall port efficiency, warning that operational inefficiencies are increasing business costs and slowing Pakistan’s economic growth. The instructions were issued during a high-level meeting focused on port development and trade facilitation, attended by senior government officials and private sector representatives.
Chairing the private sector working group on port development, the prime minister stressed that ports serve as the backbone of the national economy and play a critical role in supporting exports, imports, and industrial activity. He underlined that inefficiencies at ports directly affect the cost of doing business and undermine Pakistan’s competitiveness in global markets. Emphasising urgency, he called for immediate and practical measures to streamline port operations and reduce delays faced by traders.
One of the key directives issued by the prime minister was a drastic reduction in cargo dwell time. He also ordered the removal of unnecessary laboratory testing requirements that often lead to prolonged clearance delays. To address genuine testing needs without disrupting cargo movement, the prime minister instructed authorities to establish initial testing laboratories within port premises. This measure, he said, would help avoid repeated handling and unnecessary stoppages that add to costs and congestion.
PM Shehbaz also ordered further reductions in port charges to enhance the global competitiveness of Pakistani goods. He noted that high port and handling costs weaken exporters’ ability to compete internationally and discourage trade activity. Lower charges, combined with faster clearance, were described as essential steps to support export-led growth and attract greater trade volumes through Pakistani ports.
Officials briefed the meeting that congestion at ports is partly due to poor inland connectivity and limited port capacity. In response, the prime minister directed immediate upgrades to rail links connecting ports with inland logistics networks. Improved rail connectivity, he said, would reduce reliance on road transport, ease congestion, and improve the flow of goods across the supply chain. He also called for accelerated dredging and expansion work, particularly at Karachi ports, to allow accommodation of larger vessels and increase handling capacity. Officials confirmed that tenders for dredging and expansion projects have already been issued.
Addressing the long-standing issue of abandoned cargo, the prime minister ordered the introduction of a transparent and time-bound auction system. He also directed the creation of dedicated storage yards to ensure that unclaimed goods do not occupy valuable port space for extended periods. To further enhance transparency and participation, PM Shehbaz announced that a new e-bidding platform would soon be launched. The platform will allow bidders from across the country to participate remotely, reducing procedural delays and improving auction efficiency.
During the meeting, working group chairman Ziad Bashir welcomed the government’s recent reform measures, stating that transparent privatization initiatives and policy consistency have helped rebuild business confidence. He noted that engagement with the private sector has improved and that reforms at ports are being viewed positively by trade and industry stakeholders.
Officials also shared updates on ongoing initiatives, including progress on the national ports master plan, which is advancing rapidly. They informed the meeting that the port community system is now operational, enabling better coordination among stakeholders and improved information flow. In addition, bulk cargo handling charges at Port Qasim have been reduced significantly, providing relief to traders and importers dealing in essential commodities.
The prime minister concluded the meeting by reiterating that port reforms are central to Pakistan’s economic recovery and long-term growth strategy. He stressed that improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing transparency at ports would not only support existing businesses but also help attract new investment and trade flows. As global competition intensifies, he said, Pakistan must ensure that its ports operate at international standards to fully realise their potential as engines of economic growth.
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