KARACHI – Pakistan’s maritime sector is set to undergo comprehensive modernization focused on environmental sustainability and climate resilience, as part of a renewed national maritime strategy, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced following a series of high-level review meetings.
The minister underscored the government’s commitment to reducing environmental impact while accelerating economic activity through upgraded ports and sustainable maritime practices. The strategy places emphasis on climate-resilient infrastructure, digitalization, operational reforms, and attracting private investment.
At the Port Qasim Authority (PQA), the minister reviewed progress on the authority’s 10-year development plan aimed at expanding cargo handling capacity and turning the port into a regional logistics hub. The focus includes infrastructure modernization and climate-aligned growth.
The Karachi Port Trust (KPT) presented its reform agenda, which spans governance restructuring, service delivery improvements, and human capital development. KPT management also reported operational advances such as the clearance of 44,000 stuck containers, implementation of digital systems, export facilitation improvements, enhanced debris removal, and oil spill response preparedness.
In the fisheries domain, the Marine Fisheries Department (MFD) reported the reactivation of four laboratories and the generation of Rs250 million in non-tax revenue. The department also highlighted $450 million in seafood export earnings and the establishment of a fisheries dialogue and research center. A revamped training facility aims to conduct 300 sessions over the next three years, supporting fishermen, crew, and exporters.
Dr. Mansoor Ali Wasan, Director General of MFD, briefed the minister on ongoing capacity-building initiatives targeting key stakeholders in the fisheries sector.
The minister also directed the Korangi Fisheries Harbour Authority (KoFHA) to accelerate the Pak Aqua public-private partnership project. The venture is intended to enhance operational efficiency, attract investment, and modernize infrastructure at the harbor.
Chaudhry reiterated that this integrated maritime strategy aligns Pakistan’s ports and fisheries with international climate standards, while aiming to position the country more competitively in global trade networks.
