KARACHI: Karachi Port has recorded its highest level of ship traffic in nearly eight years, crossing the 2,000-vessel mark and highlighting a steady rise in Pakistan’s maritime trade activity.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) handled 2,003 ship calls between July 2025 and June 13, 2026, the first time the port has exceeded 2,000 vessel arrivals since the 2017-18 fiscal year.
The visiting ships accounted for a combined gross registered tonnage (GRT) of 84.43 million tonnes, reflecting the expanding scale of operations at the country’s largest seaport.
According to the minister, ship arrivals increased by 7.5 percent compared with the same period last year, while total GRT rose by 3 percent, signaling sustained growth in cargo movement and maritime commerce.
Chaudhry said the milestone demonstrates Karachi Port’s vital role in Pakistan’s trade and logistics network, through which a major share of the country’s imports and exports is processed.
He added that Pakistan has the potential to attract more transshipment business by offering port charges that are more competitive than regional hubs such as Dubai, Salalah, Colombo, and ports in India and Hong Kong.
KPT Chairman Rear Admiral (Retd) Shahid Ahmed credited the achievement to increased shipping activity, improved operational performance, and the continued trust of international shipping companies using Karachi Port.
Established in 1887, Karachi Port remains a key gateway for containerized cargo, bulk commodities, and general trade, connecting Pakistan with major regional and international shipping routes.
The maritime minister described the record vessel traffic as a positive sign for the country’s economic and trade outlook, saying it reflects stronger commercial activity and better utilization of port infrastructure.
He added that KPT’s initiatives to modernize operations, improve maritime connectivity, and attract investment have contributed significantly to the port’s growth.
Chaudhry also noted that recent geopolitical developments and disruptions to regional shipping routes have created an opportunity for Pakistan to strengthen its position as a competitive transshipment hub and further expand its role in global maritime trade.
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