Karachi Port is currently hosting 54 vessels, while Port Qasim has 18, with long queues expected to continue into next week. Gwadar Port is also facing heavy traffic and a surge in docking requests.
The bustling activity highlights the growing significance of Pakistan’s ports in regional trade, marking both a success for the country and a challenge for neighbouring competitors trying to keep pace, according to BBC reports.
Analysts viewed that rising throughput at these key ports underscores Pakistan’s strategic position in maritime trade corridors and its increasing role in the region’s logistics network.
Karachi is seeing a record rise in maritime activity as global shipping lines divert routes toward Pakistan amid escalating tensions around the Strait of Hormuz.
The situation has positioned Karachi Port as one of the safest and most reliable alternatives for international trade.
Long queues of container vessels and cargo shipments have been reported at Karachi Port, showing a sharp increase in demand. Shipping companies are actively rerouting their vessels to avoid risk routes, leading to congestion but also signalling growing confidence in Pakistan’s maritime security.
The scale of growth is evident in transhipment figures. In 2025, Karachi Port handled around 8,300 TEUs for the entire year. In contrast, the port has already processed approximately 8,860 TEUs within just the past few weeks.
Federal govt provides temporary exemption for exporters
It is worth mentioning here that the federal government last week provided a temporary exemption for exporters from the necessity of bank guarantees and letters of credit for exports through Iran.
This decision was made following the directives of Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, as stated in an official announcement on Saturday.
As per the announcement, the Ministry of Commerce has approved a temporary exemption from financial instruments for exports to Iran and Central Asian nations, thereby permitting exports to Iran, Azerbaijan, and Central Asian countries via land routes.
The exemption for exports from Pakistan to Iran is valid for a period of three months, starting from March 24 to June 21, 2026, as stated by Jam Kamal. The minister indicated that this initiative aims to assist exporters and enhance regional trade.
The export of various goods to Iran has been authorised, including rice, seafood, potatoes, meat, onions, sweetcorn, and fruits. Additionally, the concession encompasses the export of pharmaceutical products and tents.
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