Pakistan sees a rise in transshipment as Gulf shipping disruptions prompt carriers to reroute cargo, according to Jeddah's Arab News.
Pakistan is experiencing a modest rise in transshipment activity as Gulf shipping disruptions force carriers to reroute cargo, reported Jeddah's Arab News.
The government last week revised international transshipment rules, allowing cargo handling within and outside ports. Shipping lines have diverted vessels from Dubai and Salalah, unloading containers in Karachi instead, according to the Pakistan Ship's Agents Association.
Karachi Port Trust data showed that three private terminals handled more than 8,300 TEU this month. Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited managed 1,200 TEU, Karachi International Container Terminal handled 1,827 TEU, and South Asia Pakistan Terminal Limited processed 5,286 TEU.
Analysts have indicated that the uptick is temporary, generating incremental port income but no windfall gains. Investment analyst Unzilla Shaikh noted that the benefits remain modest despite the diverted cargo flows.
Officials stated that private terminals pay royalties ranging from $15 to $36 per container to port operators. The diversion has created congestion, with storage areas now filled, according to PSAA Secretary-General Syed Tahir Hussain.
Mr. Hussain added that Pakistan could establish itself as a permanent transshipment hub by offering more competitive tariffs than rivals such as Dubai, Salalah, Colombo, India, and Hong Kong. 'Previously, we were not even in the race,' he said. 'Now Pakistan has a unique opportunity as ships are looking for nearby alternatives.'
