Trade activity at Pakistani ports accelerates amid Gulf conflict

Karachi (Web Desk): Pakistan’s ports are witnessing a surge in trade activity as shipping companies increasingly divert cargo through the country amid ongoing tensions in the Gulf region and disruptions to traditional maritime routes.

According to a report by Arab News, Hutchison Ports Pakistan has confirmed the arrival of new cargo consignments through multiple vessels.

Two ships have already docked at the port, while a third is expected to arrive during the first week of June.

The company said its terminal in Karachi will process an additional 4,000 transshipment containers, reflecting growing demand for Pakistan’s port facilities.

The report noted that disruptions caused by the Gulf crisis have prompted international shipping lines to consider Pakistani ports as an alternative gateway for regional trade.

Maritime officials said the changing regional situation has significantly increased activity at both Karachi Port and Gwadar Port. Operational utilization at Gwadar has reportedly risen from 20 percent to 30 percent in recent weeks.

To attract more international cargo traffic, authorities have introduced a series of incentives at Gwadar Port, including a 25 percent reduction in berthage charges, a 40 percent cut in international transshipment cargo fees, and a 31 percent decrease in transit cargo charges.

Officials believe these measures, combined with ongoing disruptions in the Gulf, could further enhance Pakistan’s position as a regional maritime and logistics hub.