Port Qasim boosts transshipment volumes at QICT
PQA handles 3,485 TEUs as incentives aim to expand regional hub role
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said on Saturday that Port Qasim Authority (PQA) has increased transshipment activity at Qasim International Container Terminal (QICT), handling 3,485 TEUs across two vessels.
The minister said the container vessel Northern Guard berthed at QICT on March 23 and processed 3,180 TEUs of transshipment cargo. Another vessel, Nagoya Express, handled an additional 305 TEUs during the same operational window, reflecting steady cargo movement.
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He added that regular container operations at the port remained strong alongside transshipment growth. Imports reached 21,537 TEUs, while exports stood at 29,467 TEUs, indicating sustained trade flows through the port during the period.
Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said PQA maintains significant on-dock capacity to support rising transshipment demand. The authority currently offers around 5,100 TEUs capacity dedicated to transshipment cargo handling at the port.
This capacity is supported by operational space at multiple locations within the port area. Around 5,000 TEUs are accommodated within the QICT yard, while an additional 3,000 TEUs capacity is available at the PQA’s TSA-A area, ensuring flexibility in cargo management.
The minister said these arrangements provide sufficient room for handling higher volumes as shipping activity expands. He noted that efficient yard management and infrastructure availability remain critical for sustaining operational performance.
To further attract transshipment cargo, PQA has introduced a series of tariff incentives aimed at reducing operational costs for shipping lines. These include zero wharfage charges on transshipment cargo handled at the port.
Additional concessions have also been offered on wet charges, including pilotage and port dues. The minister said these reductions are designed to make Port Qasim more competitive in the regional shipping market.
Under the revised structure, vessels carrying 50% or more transshipment cargo are eligible for a 50% discount on applicable charges. Ships with transshipment volumes between 25% and 50% can avail a 25% concession.
Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said these measures are part of a broader government strategy to position Pakistan’s ports as competitive regional transshipment hubs. The approach focuses on improving operational efficiency, lowering costs, and facilitating international shipping lines.
He said the policy direction aims to enhance port attractiveness for global carriers while ensuring faster turnaround times and reliable handling services. Strengthening port performance remains central to increasing trade throughput and regional connectivity.
The minister added that Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited (KGTL) is also contributing to transshipment activity by handling additional cargo. The terminal is processing consignments from the vessel DP World Chennai, supporting overall port operations.
He said Karachi Port continues to strengthen its position as a regional hub through improved service delivery. Enhanced operational speed and precision are helping build confidence among international shipping operators.
“By delivering speed and precision, Karachi Port is reinforcing global confidence in its operational excellence,” the minister said, highlighting the importance of consistent service standards.
The ongoing efforts at Port Qasim and Karachi Port reflect a coordinated push to expand Pakistan’s role in regional maritime trade. Authorities are focusing on capacity utilization, cost efficiency, and service reliability to attract more transshipment business.
With rising cargo handling figures and targeted incentives in place, Port Qasim Authority is positioning itself to capture a larger share of regional shipping traffic. The government expects these steps to support long-term growth in maritime trade and strengthen Pakistan’s standing as a logistics hub.