Over 65 US companies participated in a webinar on Tuesday, exploring commercial opportunities within Pakistan’s maritime sector. The event, co-hosted by the US Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration and the State Department, in partnership with Pakistan’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs, focused on Karachi Port and Port Qasim as key drivers for bilateral trade and investment.
The webinar, part of the ‘Gateways to Growth: South Asia Port Opportunities’ series, featured senior officials from Pakistan’s port authorities, including the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Port Qasim Authority, and key terminal operators like Abu Dhabi Ports (Karachi Gateway Terminal Ltd) and Dubai Ports World (Qasim International Container Terminal).
US Consul General Scott Urbom highlighted the significant potential of the maritime sector for both nations, emphasizing the role of US investors in supporting Pakistan’s infrastructure growth. Urbom reaffirmed the US Mission’s commitment to facilitating American businesses through local partnerships and navigating Pakistan’s regulatory landscape.
The webinar also discussed how US companies can contribute to Pakistan’s infrastructure goals, particularly in enhancing port operations, improving trade flows, and strengthening supply chains. Ean Hundley, from the US International Development Finance Corporation, stated the initiative was designed to equip US firms with the resources to access South Asia’s port-related development projects.
Pakistani officials shared insights on the country’s infrastructure priorities and ongoing reforms, including port capacity improvements and efforts towards digitalisation. The session underscored the role of public-private partnerships in advancing terminal operations.
Alia Shahid, Director General for Ports and Shipping, along with other industry representatives, provided direct input on Pakistan’s maritime sector, showcasing the nation’s growing potential in port development.
Urbom concluded by urging American businesses to engage and explore opportunities in Pakistan’s evolving maritime infrastructure, with the US government committed to supporting their efforts through advocacy, trade promotion, and commercial diplomacy.
