Karachi Port's liner shipping connectivity hits record high in Q2CY26

September 18, 2026 (MLN): Karachi Port's liner shipping connectivity has climbed to its highest-ever level, with the Port Liner Shipping Connectivity Index (PLSCI) score rising to 343.02 in the second quarter of 2026, up from 309.81 in the preceding quarter, reflecting deepening integration between Pakistan's principal port and international shipping networks.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, in a statement issued, said the index  compiled from connectivity data spanning nearly 900 ports worldwide  highlighted Karachi Port's strengthening role in global trade, noting that the country's overall Liner Shipping Connectivity Index (LSCI) ranking had also improved, moving up from 35th to 34th position.

According to the data, Karachi Port's PLSCI stood at 329.24 in the second quarter of 2024 before easing to 319.20 in the third quarter and 323.67 in the fourth.

The score was recorded at 321.70 in the first quarter of 2025 and 321.84 in the second, before slipping to 298.56 in the third quarter.

It then recovered to 321.91 in the fourth quarter of 2025 and 309.81 in the first quarter of 2026, ahead of the latest reading of 343.02.

The minister said stronger maritime connectivity could support trade flows, widen access to global markets, and open up greater opportunities for exporters and importers, adding that the improvement demonstrated progress in strengthening Pakistan's maritime trade links.

He said ports were being positioned to play a bigger role in international and regional trade, and that enhanced connectivity at Karachi Port would help facilitate trade while reinforcing the country's ties with global markets.

Junaid Chaudhry said the government remained focused on improving port services, easing shipping activity, and building an environment conducive to trade and investment, and that the latest PLSCI and LSCI figures should be read within the broader push to modernise the maritime sector and lift the efficiency and competitiveness of Pakistan's ports.

He said authorities would continue engaging port operators, shipping lines and other stakeholders to further build out maritime connectivity, describing the latest figures as pointing toward stronger global links, more trade opportunities and a more connected Pakistan.

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