PM Orders Port Reforms to Reduce Cargo Delays and Export Costs
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday ordered wide-ranging reforms at Pakistan’s ports to reduce cargo delays, lower business costs, and strengthen export competitiveness. The directives were issued during a meeting of a private-sector working group on port development.
Also Read: PIA Privatisation Ensures National Identity Remains Intact
The prime minister said inefficient port operations were hurting businesses and slowing economic growth. He stressed that Pakistan’s ports are critical to trade and must operate efficiently to support the national economy.
PM Orders Port Reforms to Improve Cargo Clearance and Export Efficiency
PM Shehbaz Sharif instructed port authorities and relevant agencies to take immediate steps to reduce cargo dwell time at ports. He emphasized that unnecessary delays in cargo clearance increase costs for importers and exporters, making Pakistani products less competitive in international markets.
To address this issue, the prime minister ordered the elimination of redundant laboratory testing that causes avoidable hold-ups. He said only essential tests should be conducted and directed authorities to streamline procedures to ensure faster clearance of goods.
Laboratory Facilities Within Ports
To further prevent delays, the prime minister directed the establishment of initial testing laboratories within port premises. He said on-site testing would significantly reduce clearance time and improve coordination among port-linked agencies.
He added that modern testing facilities at ports would help exporters meet international standards while minimizing logistical disruptions. Authorities were also instructed to ensure that testing procedures remain transparent and efficient.
Cutting Port Charges to Boost Exports
PM Shehbaz Sharif ordered further reductions in port charges to ease the financial burden on businesses and enhance Pakistan’s global trade competitiveness. He said high port handling charges increase export costs and discourage trade activity.
Officials briefed the meeting that bulk cargo handling charges at Port Qasim had recently been reduced by more than 50 percent as a relief measure for traders. The prime minister welcomed the step and directed similar measures at other ports where feasible.
Infrastructure Expansion and Dredging
Highlighting the need for modern infrastructure, the prime minister ordered the acceleration of dredging and expansion work at all ports, particularly in Karachi. He said larger and modern vessels should be able to berth at Pakistani ports to support growing trade volumes.
He noted that tenders for dredging and expansion projects had already been issued and directed authorities to ensure timely completion. According to the prime minister, expanding port capacity is essential for long-term economic growth and regional trade integration.
Upgrading Rail Connectivity
PM Shehbaz Sharif also directed improvements in rail connectivity from ports to facilitate faster inland movement of goods. He said an efficient rail network would reduce reliance on road transport, cut costs, and improve overall logistics efficiency.
He instructed relevant departments to coordinate closely to ensure ports are fully integrated with the national transport network, allowing seamless movement of cargo across the country.
Transparent System for Abandoned Cargo
Addressing the issue of long-staying and abandoned cargo, the prime minister ordered the introduction of a transparent and efficient auction system. He directed authorities to create dedicated yards at ports for abandoned cargo to prevent congestion and misuse of space.
He also suggested engaging internationally reputed firms to manage the auction process to ensure transparency and credibility. According to the prime minister, clearing abandoned cargo efficiently would free up port space and improve operational efficiency.
Launch of E-Bidding System
PM Shehbaz Sharif announced that a new electronic bidding system would be launched soon to modernize the auction process. The e-bidding platform will allow bidders from across the country to participate remotely, increasing competition and transparency.
Officials informed the meeting that the system is in its final stages and will significantly reduce delays and manual intervention in cargo auctions.
Port Governance and Digitisation
During the meeting, officials briefed participants that work on the National Ports Master Plan was progressing rapidly. The plan aims to modernize Pakistan’s ports and align them with international standards.
Also Read: CDA Raises Rs. 13.52 Billion on First Day of Plot Auction
They also informed the prime minister that the port community system is now operational, enabling better coordination among stakeholders and improving data sharing. The prime minister welcomed these developments and stressed the importance of continued digitisation.
Private Sector Feedback
Working group chairman Ziad Bashir presented recommendations for port reforms and appreciated recent government measures. He said steps taken by the government, including the transparent privatisation of Pakistan International Airlines, had helped restore business confidence.
He emphasized that continued collaboration between the public and private sectors was essential to modernize ports and improve Pakistan’s trade environment.
Meeting Participants
The meeting was attended by federal ministers Ahsan Iqbal, Ahad Khan Cheema, Musadik Malik, along with senior government officials and representatives of port authorities.
Conclusion
PM Shehbaz Sharif directives signal a strong commitment to reforming Pakistan’s port sector to support trade, exports, and economic growth. By reducing cargo delays, cutting costs, improving infrastructure, and enhancing transparency, the government aims to position Pakistani ports as efficient gateways for regional and global commerce.
