Port Qasim expansion plans draw US interest

September 10, 2025 (MLN): Port Qasim is set for a major expansion with plans for a coastal economic zone and two LNG terminals on a build-operate-transfer basis.

Furthermore, a shipyard, multipurpose cargo terminals, an integrated container terminal, and a second oil terminal with storage facilities is also under discussion, said a press release issued yesterday.

These development prospects were presented to a visiting US delegation at the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, where Federal Secretary Syed Zafar Ali Shah and port officials highlighted opportunities for investment and cooperation in Pakistan’s maritime sector.

The Port Qasim Authority chairman detailed ongoing projects, including dredging of navigation channels, commissioning of an alternate route, dualization of a 26-kilometer main access road, and installation of effluent treatment plants in industrial zones.

He added that the port operates round the clock for ship handling and cargo evacuation, with connectivity upgrades underway through road and rail networks.

At Karachi Port, the delegation was informed about its three private container terminals, one private bulk terminal, three liquid cargo berths, an environment-friendly cement export facility, and 13 dry cargo berths.

Handling 54 percent of Pakistan’s trade with an annual capacity of 125 million tons, Karachi Port has improved its global ranking to 61st among 405 container ports in 2023 and recently managed the country’s largest vessel, measuring 400 meters.

Gwadar Port was also highlighted for its strategic location, tourism potential, ongoing infrastructure projects, and special economic zones aimed at driving long-term economic growth.

Expressing keen interest in LNG terminals, bulk cargo handling, and broader cooperation across all three ports, the US delegation recognized the strategic importance of Pakistan’s maritime sector as a key driver of future economic development.

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