Pakistan inaugurates first HKC-certified ship recycling facility

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has inaugurated Pakistan’s first ship recycling facility certified under the Hong Kong International Convention (HKC), marking a significant milestone for the country’s maritime sector. 

The new facility, Prime Green Recycling Yard, represents a major step toward safer, environmentally responsible practices in an industry previously criticized for hazardous working conditions.

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Chaudhry emphasized that the certification demonstrates Pakistan’s commitment to international maritime and environmental standards. “This is a historic achievement for Pakistan’s maritime sector,” he said, calling the success of the Prime Green Recycling Yard a matter of national pride and signaling that Pakistan is meeting global benchmarks for environmentally friendly ship recycling.

The HKC, adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), sets guidelines for the safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships. These standards cover hazardous materials management, worker safety, and waste disposal. Chaudhry noted that Pakistan’s ship recycling practices are now aligned with these global standards, underscoring the country’s progress in maritime reform.

Shipbreaking is a significant industry in Pakistan, particularly in the coastal town of Gadani, Balochistan, once one of the world’s largest ship recycling hubs. Minister Chaudhry shared that the government is working on modernizing the Gadani Ship Recycling Zone with a focus on infrastructure upgrades, regulatory reforms, and improved oversight, particularly regarding worker safety.

“Protecting the lives and health of workers is our foremost concern,” he said, emphasizing the enforcement of improved safety protocols throughout the sector. Chaudhry also acknowledged the role of the Pakistan Ship Breakers Association in formalizing and organizing the industry, highlighting the importance of public-private sector cooperation for sustainable growth.

The minister further stated that modernizing the ship recycling industry could create thousands of jobs and conserve valuable foreign exchange by supplying locally sourced steel and materials to domestic industries. “Ship recycling can become a major contributor to economic growth, reducing dependence on imports and strengthening Pakistan’s industrial base,” he added.

Chaudhry reiterated the government’s commitment to maritime development, pledging continued investment and policy support to position Pakistan as a regional leader in safe and sustainable maritime activities. 

“Our vision is to make Pakistan a sustainable and secure maritime leader in the region,” he concluded, noting that the HKC certification is just the first step in a broader reform agenda to enhance the country’s standing in the global maritime sector.