Port Qasim Performance Improves Under Pakistan’s Maritime Reforms
ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN — WEB DESK: Port Qasim has recorded a significant improvement in its international standing as Pakistan pushes ahead with reforms aimed at modernising ports, accelerating cargo processing and improving the competitiveness of the country’s maritime sector.
According to figures reported by state-run Radio Pakistan, Port Qasim’s global ranking improved from 74th to 56th position within one year, an advance of 18 places. Karachi Port also moved from 99th to 69th position during the same period.
The government attributes the improvements to measures introduced under the Prime Minister’s Task Force on Maritime Affairs, which has been pursuing reforms covering port operations, infrastructure, logistics, customs procedures and digitalisation.
Together, Karachi Port and Port Qasim have the capacity to handle more than 100 million tonnes of cargo annually, according to government figures. Officials say modernised port facilities and improved operating systems could strengthen Pakistan’s position as a regional transshipment and logistics hub.
The reforms extend beyond international rankings. Earlier reporting on the programme said cargo clearance times had fallen from 53 hours to 18 hours, alongside the introduction of a uniform port tariff system and modern cargo-management measures.
Revenue indicators cited in government-linked reporting have also shown gains. Goods Declaration revenue reportedly increased by 16%, income-tax collections by 14%, while electronic legal revenue recorded a 105% increase.
Infrastructure is another major component of the reform programme. A Rs2.46 billion Pipri Multi-Logistics Park is under construction through cooperation between the National Logistics Corporation and DP World, with a 1.5-kilometre railway link planned to improve connections with Port Qasim and Karachi Port. The project is intended to shift more cargo movement to rail and ease heavy-truck traffic in Karachi.
The broader reform programme includes a 99-point maritime roadmap, which officials say is intended to improve governance, infrastructure and investment while tapping Pakistan’s blue-economy potential.
A recent National Assembly committee record also noted significant improvements in Pakistan’s international port rankings and said the progress reflected efforts to improve the efficiency and competitiveness of the maritime sector.
The latest indicators suggest Pakistan’s port modernisation drive is producing measurable operational gains. However, maintaining those improvements will depend on sustained investment, efficient customs processes, reliable transport links and continued implementation of the wider reform programme.
