Gwadar Port handles 53,000-ton steel shipment in deep-draft milestone

May 25, 2026 (MLN): Gwadar Port has marked a significant operational achievement after successfully berthing a large deep-draft vessel loaded with over 53,000 metric tons of steel billets, signaling the port's rising stature as a regional transshipment hub.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry confirmed on Sunday that the vessel, MV BI JIA SHAN, sailing under the command of Captain Li Han, docked at Gwadar Port on May 24, 2026.

The ship carried approximately 53,277 metric tons of prime steel billets, totaling around 20,669 pieces, originating from China, according to a press release issued.

What made the operation particularly noteworthy was the vessel's draft of approximately 12.8 metres, putting Gwadar's deep-sea navigation channel and cargo-handling infrastructure to the test, a test the port passed with success.

Originally chartered from Bayuquan Port in China and bound for Port Sohar in Oman, the vessel diverted to Gwadar for transshipment  a decision the minister described as a testament to growing international confidence in the port's strategic positioning and operational reliability.

Minister Chaudhry said the development reinforced Gwadar's emerging role as a maritime gateway linking China, the Middle East, and Central Asia within broader global supply chains.

The Ministry of Maritime Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining safe, efficient, and cost-effective port operations as Pakistan continues to strengthen its foothold in regional and international trade corridors.

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