Karachi port makes waves with first ferry terminal

January 08, 2026 (MLN):  The government has inaugurated Pakistan’s first-ever ferry terminal at Karachi Port Trust (KPT), a move aimed at promoting coastal tourism, enhancing regional connectivity, and strengthening the country’s blue economy.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, presided over the ceremony and described the project as a landmark step toward introducing modern, safe, and sustainable maritime passenger transport in Pakistan, according to a press release issued.

The ferry service is expected to commence later this month, supporting the Prime Minister’s vision of harnessing maritime resources to diversify economic activities.

“This ferry service is not just about transportation; it is a gateway to economic opportunities, tourism promotion, and regional integration,” Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said.

He noted that this is the first ferry service license ever issued in Pakistan, calling it a historic achievement for the maritime sector.

The minister added that the inauguration would boost confidence among investors and demonstrate the government’s commitment to creating a facilitative environment for private sector participation.

He highlighted ongoing policy reforms, infrastructure development, and public-private partnerships spearheaded by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs to expand the country’s blue economy.

Furthermore, it was also revealed that there is  strong investor interest, with several businessmen seeking licenses to operate ferry services.

He expressed confidence that private sector involvement would drive growth in maritime tourism, create jobs, and benefit industries such as hospitality, transport, and allied sectors.

Encouraging innovation, the minister urged businesses to propose new ideas for collaboration with Pakistani ports, promising full support and facilitation from the government.

In a related announcement, he said the Port Qasim Authority would soon unveil plans for a state-of-the-art industrial zone, designed to provide modern infrastructure for investors and boost industrial activity, exports, and economic growth.

The event was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, KPT management, representatives of the shipping and business communities, and other stakeholders, all of whom lauded the initiative as a major step toward revitalizing Pakistan’s maritime sector.

This latest development builds on the government’s ongoing efforts to modernize Pakistan’s maritime economy, following recent initiatives such as the launch of the country’s first Fishing Technology Museum and the Mahi-Dost digital traceability app.

Together, these projects demonstrate a coordinated strategy to integrate innovation, sustainability, and heritage preservation, unlocking new economic opportunities while protecting marine resources and advancing the nation’s blue economy.

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