Karachi Port Trust grants 25–50% storage charge waivers for stranded export containers

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has announced storage charge waivers ranging from 25% to 50% at Karachi Port Trust terminals to support exporters affected by disruptions in Gulf-bound shipments.

The waivers apply to export containers that remained stranded at terminal yards due to operational issues and could not be loaded, the minister said.

According to details, 50% waivers were approved at KGTL from March 1 to 20, 2026, and at KICT from March 1 to 10, 2026, while SAPT offered a 25% waiver from March 11 to 31, 2026. 

The initiative was led by Rear Admiral Shahid Ahmed (retd), Chairman of Karachi Port Trust, on the minister’s direction after consultations with terminal operators.

Maritime affairs minister said the measures aim to reduce financial pressure on exporters, facilitate clearance of pending consignments and improve cargo handling efficiency at ports.

He said maritime institutions are being directed to adopt a facilitative approach to ensure that operational delays do not result in additional costs for trade stakeholders.

The minister also emphasised the need for improved coordination among ports and terminal operators to streamline logistics and support export activity, noting that efficient port operations remain important for trade flow and economic stability.