Pakistan to expand shipping fleet by 600%

July 30,2025(MLN): Pakistan has initiated an expansion of its national shipping fleet by 600% within the next three years, aiming to strengthen maritime infrastructure, cut down the sea freight bill, and reduce reliance on foreign vessels.

The initiative is a key step toward establishing the country as a regional maritime hub while aligning with global efforts to decarbonize the shipping industry, said a press release.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry chaired the signing ceremony of agreements between the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) and two major port authorities Karachi Port Trust (KPT) and Port Qasim Authority (PQA) to provide financial backing for the fleet expansion.

The minister emphasized that the program is designed to support climate-smart maritime practices by integrating greener technologies and energy-efficient vessels into the state-owned fleet.

“This initiative reflects our broader vision to modernize the maritime sector, boost operational efficiency, and introduce advanced technologies across all institutions,” he said.

This development follows a high-level policy meeting where maritime stakeholders, under the minister’s leadership, agreed to align fleet modernization with national climate goals.

KPT and PQA officials noted that the upgraded fleet would not only help conserve foreign exchange and improve trade connectivity but also ensure compliance with international environmental standards by minimizing fuel use and emissions.

The agreements were signed by A. Abdullah Zaki, representing KPT’s Transition Management Committee, Rear Admiral (R) Syed Moazzam Ilyas HI(M), Chairman of PQA, and PNSC CEO Syed Jarar Haider Kazmi.

The initiative is part of Pakistan’s long-term strategy to build a resilient, competitive maritime economy rooted in sustainability and technological advancement.

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