PM directs PNSC to expand fleet

June 20, 2025 (MLN): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has directed Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) to enhance its shipping fleet by acquiring vessels on lease in a bid to strengthen the country’s maritime capacity and reduce reliance on foreign shipping lines.

Chairing a high-level meeting on the affairs of PNSC, the Prime Minister instructed that a comprehensive business plan be submitted within two weeks, outlining concrete measures to eliminate the annual $4 billion burden on the national exchequer stemming from payments to foreign shipping services.

He stressed that strengthening Pakistan’s national fleet is essential to achieving long-term economic sustainability and protecting valuable foreign exchange reserves.

The business plan is expected to include proposals for operational restructuring, route expansion, and possible strategic partnerships to help PNSC become self-reliant and competitive on international shipping routes.