Pakistan has authorized the handling of bulk cargo and vehicle shipments under transshipment arrangements for the first time, aiming to establish itself as a key regional logistics hub amid evolving trade routes in the Middle East. This strategic move was announced by the maritime ministry on Thursday.
The decision follows disruptions in traditional shipping lanes caused by the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which has particularly affected maritime traffic around the Strait of Hormuz. As a result, shipping companies are seeking alternative routes and ports to maintain their operations.
These approvals came after recommendations from a high-level committee formed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and chaired by Maritime Affairs Minister Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry. The ministry described the move as a significant step toward making Pakistan a competitive and resilient transshipment hub in the region.
Under the new policy, Pakistani ports will now handle bulk and break-bulk cargo, including commodities such as grains, coal, and minerals, under transshipment arrangements. This is expected to enhance port throughput and attract more shipping lines to the country.
Additionally, the government has approved specialized Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) operations, allowing the transshipment of vehicles such as cars and SUVs through Pakistani ports. Authorities have also permitted the handling of less-than-container-load (LCL) cargo, enabling the consolidation and redistribution of smaller shipments to improve efficiency and draw global freight forwarders.
These measures come at a time when geopolitical and security challenges are reshaping regional trade routes, presenting Pakistan with an opportunity to expand its role in international logistics. Officials highlighted that this initiative could boost port revenues, increase foreign exchange earnings, create employment in the logistics sector, and strengthen Pakistan’s integration into global supply chains.
Moreover, the government plans to leverage this framework to facilitate transit trade for landlocked Central Asian countries, aiming to reduce dependence on competing regional hubs and enhance Pakistan’s strategic importance in the region.
