Karachi: The government has unveiled plans for the major modernisation of Port Qasim, aiming to position it as a central trade and industrial hub capable of contributing significantly to Pakistan’s national revenue, Maritime Affairs Minister Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said on Monday.
Speaking at a ceremony celebrating Port Qasim’s recognition as the world’s ninth most improved container port, Chaudhry said the ranking reflects the success of ongoing modernisation and management reforms. “Port Qasim improved its performance score by 35.2 points, demonstrating substantial progress in reducing cargo dwell time, streamlining berth operations, and adopting digital management tools,” he said.
The minister outlined the government’s vision to transform Port Qasim into a regional maritime and industrial gateway through infrastructure expansion, industrialisation, and green maritime initiatives. Highlighting the port’s strategic location and industrial complex, he said it has the potential to contribute a large share of the country’s USD 100 billion revenue target.
As part of the modernisation programme, the government plans to implement the ‘Sea-to-Steel Green Maritime Industrial Corridor’, a USD 13 billion initiative designed to revive Pakistan Steel Mills. The project will integrate port operations with industrial activity, creating a value chain from maritime logistics to steel manufacturing.
In the second phase, the iron ore and coal berth terminal will be revitalised and linked with an upcoming Integrated Maritime Industrial Complex (IMIC), combining ship recycling with steel production. The “Steel-to-Green Sea” initiative will be jointly executed by the maritime and industries ministries to promote sustainable industrial development.
The Port Qasim Authority is also advancing several projects to expand capacity and improve efficiency, including the construction of new multipurpose and container terminals, the establishment of a Port Qasim Special Economic Zone (PQSEZ), and adoption of environment-friendly “Green Port” technologies.
The PQSEZ is expected to serve as a modern industrial and logistics hub attracting both local and foreign investment. Enhanced connectivity through upgraded road, rail, and communication networks is intended to lower logistics costs and improve Pakistan’s competitiveness in global trade.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to maritime-led development, Chaudhry said modernisation of port infrastructure, expansion of trade corridors, and creation of specialised industrial zones are key to achieving long-term economic stability. “Our vision is to make Port Qasim not just a cargo-handling facility, but a comprehensive maritime-industrial ecosystem powering Pakistan’s future growth,” he added.
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