The government has approved significant reductions in port handling charges and introduced free storage incentives for transshipment cargo as part of a new strategy to position Pakistan as a regional transshipment hub.

Announcing the initiative, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the new policy offers discounts of up to 80% on port handling charges for transshipment vessels, with higher incentives available for ships handling larger cargo volumes.

The measures are aimed at improving the competitiveness of Pakistan's ports by lowering logistics costs, reducing vessel turnaround times and attracting greater regional transshipment traffic.

Under the new framework, Karachi Port will reduce wharfage charges for transshipment cargo by 20% to 80%. The port will also provide 14 days of free storage, while cargo stored in the TPX area will receive 30 days of free storage.

At Port Qasim, the government has approved a 100% waiver of wharfage charges for transshipment cargo. Terminal operators will offer seven days of free storage, with the option to extend the storage period to 21 days.

In addition, container terminal operators have agreed to reduce terminal handling charges by up to 25%, further lowering operating costs for shipping lines.

The government expects the package to strengthen Pakistan's position in regional maritime trade, increase port activity and improve the country's competitiveness as a preferred transshipment destination.