Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, has announced that Port Qasim is being developed on modern lines to help Pakistan achieve at least half of its $100 billion revenue target. He stated that the port is now emerging as a major industrial and commercial hub.
Speaking as the chief guest at a ceremony, the Minister highlighted that Port Qasim has been recognized globally as the ninth most improved container port in terms of performance—an achievement that reflects the success of ongoing reforms and modernization efforts.
He added that Port Qasim has improved its performance score by 35.2 points, demonstrating significant progress in reducing cargo dwell time, enhancing berth operations, and implementing digital management systems. According to Junaid Chaudhry, the government aims to transform Port Qasim into a regional trade and industrial gateway, contributing to national economic growth through infrastructure expansion, industrial development, and environmentally friendly maritime initiatives.
The Minister emphasized that the port’s strategic location and industrial complex give it the potential to contribute significantly to Pakistan’s national revenue goals.
He further announced that the government has launched a ten-year plan to save $13 billion, under which Pakistan’s first “Sea-to-Steel Green Maritime Industrial Corridor” will be established to revive Pakistan Steel Mills. The project will link port operations with industrial production to create an integrated value chain—from maritime logistics to steel manufacturing.
In the second phase of the project, the Iron Ore & Coal Berth (IOCB) terminal will be rehabilitated.
Junaid Chaudhry added that an Integrated Maritime Industrial Complex (IMIC) will be set up, connecting ship recycling with steel production, enhancing local manufacturing capacity, and creating new employment opportunities.
