Pakistan aims to boost merchant fleet to 30% by 2047

February 28, 2025 (MLN): Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding its merchant fleet share from 12% to 30% by 2047 and enhancing Gwadar Port’s capacity as a regional trade hub under CPEC and global maritime networks.

This commitment was reiterated by officials during the National Maritime Policy Workshop 2025, organized by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs.

The workshop provided a significant platform for discussion, collaboration, and cooperation on marine pollution control, marine tourism, expansion of the blue economy, maritime security, and international cooperation.

The workshop facilitated and brought together government officials, industrialists, maritime experts, and international stakeholders to deliberate on the implementation of the recently launched National Maritime Policy (NMP) 2025 and its role in driving Pakistan’s maritime sector forward.

The Honorable Minister for Maritime Affairs, Qaiser Ahmed Shaikh, inaugurated the workshop, emphasizing the country's commitment to becoming a modern maritime nation through sustainable development and the promotion of the blue economy.

The Minister, in his keynote address, highlighted that the NMP 2025 aligns with international maritime frameworks, including the International Maritime Organization (IMO) conventions, ensuring Pakistan's compliance with global maritime safety and environmental standards.

The workshop focused on key environmental challenges and marine pollution control measures, emphasizing Pakistan’s commitment to MARPOL 73/78 and the Ballast Water Management Convention.

Participants discussed the enforcement of industrial waste treatment regulations, stricter monitoring of offshore waste disposal, and digital pollution tracking systems at ports, according to the press release.

The expansion of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to 30% of Pakistan’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and strengthening the National Marine Disaster Contingency Plan (NMDCP) were also highlighted as critical measures to safeguard marine ecosystems.

The workshop reemphasized the expansion of Pakistan’s blue economy, with detailed discussions on shipbuilding, offshore renewable energy, deep-sea exploration, aquaculture, and marine biotechnology.

The development of shipyards at Gwadar and Port Qasim was recognized as a strategic initiative to strengthen Pakistan’s shipbuilding and repair industry, contributing to national economic growth and job creation.

The development of marine and coastal tourism was another key area of discussion.

Experts outlined strategies to secure Blue Flag certification for Pakistan’s beaches, promote eco-tourism, and attract private sector investment in sustainable tourism infrastructure.

The policy’s focus on enhancing ferry services and improving connectivity between coastal cities was identified as a significant step toward making Pakistan a competitive destination for maritime tourism.

Pakistan’s commitment to international maritime cooperation, stronger engagement with IMO, and other global maritime organizations were deliberated at length through this workshop.

Furthermore, it also highlighted Pakistan’s leadership in promoting regional maritime trade and security and aimed at enhancing economic collaboration among Pakistan and other countries.

Officials also underscored Pakistan’s role in regional ocean governance, maritime security, and climate adaptation efforts.

The National Maritime Policy Workshop 2025 served as a pivotal forum for advancing maritime reforms and identifying actionable steps for policy implementation.

The Ministry of Maritime Affairs, in collaboration with stakeholders, will continue working towards strengthening Pakistan’s maritime sector, enhancing trade connectivity, protecting marine resources, and fostering sustainable economic growth.

Copyright Mettis Link News