Pakistan announces port fee relief as exporters hit by shipment disruptions

Pakistan has approved storage charge waivers of up to 50% at Karachi Port Trust terminals to support exporters affected by recent disruptions in Gulf-bound shipments, officials said Sunday.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the relief package was finalized after consultations with terminal operators, following concerns from exporters over delays and rising costs.

Under the arrangement, a 50% waiver will apply at Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited for the period March 1-20 while a similar concession has been granted at Karachi International Container Terminal from March 1-10. Additionally, a 25% waiver will be implemented at South Asia Pakistan Terminals from March 11-31, according to an official statement.

The initiative was spearheaded by Shahid Ahmed, chairman of Karachi Port Trust, who coordinated with terminal operators following directives from the minister.

“These waivers are intended to ease financial pressure on exporters and importers, facilitate the clearance of stranded consignments, and improve cargo handling efficiency at port terminals,” Chaudhry said.

The relief applies to export containers that remained stuck at terminal yards and could not be loaded due to operational bottlenecks in recent weeks, particularly affecting shipments destined for Gulf markets.

Industry stakeholders welcomed the move, saying it would help reduce cost burdens and restore confidence among exporters grappling with delayed shipments and increased logistics expenses.

Chaudhry described the measure as a “timely and constructive step” to ensure trade continuity, emphasizing the need for stronger coordination among maritime institutions and terminal operators to prevent disruptions from escalating into financial losses.

He added that improving port efficiency and adopting a more trade-friendly approach remain central to Pakistan’s broader strategy to boost exports, enhance competitiveness and strengthen economic stability.