A high-level meeting was held today under the chairmanship of Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Qaisar Ahmed Shaikh, to discuss the impact of higher port charges at Karachi Port Trust (KPT) on the cost of doing business. The meeting brought together key stakeholders from government institutions, business chambers, and port operators to chart a way forward for mitigating the financial burden on businesses. Addressing the participants, Federal Minister Qaisar Ahmed Shaikh acknowledged the concerns raised by various industries regarding the rising port charges at KPT. He emphasized that ensuring cost-effectiveness in port operations is essential for enhancing Pakistan’s trade competitiveness. "The government is committed to resolving these challenges and creating a business-friendly environment that supports trade and economic growth," said the minister. Stakeholders highlighted the adverse effects of higher port charges on operational costs, which directly impact the pricing of imported goods and export competitiveness. The discussion focused on revisiting port tariffs to ensure they align with regional benchmarks, enhancing operational efficiency to reduce delays and associated costs, and leveraging technology to streamline port activities. The Federal Minister directed Karachi Port Trust (KPT) and other relevant stakeholders to prepare a comprehensive plan to rationalize port charges while ensuring quality service delivery. He also announced the formation of a working group to monitor progress and address the concerns of businesses effectively. The meeting concluded with a unanimous agreement to maintain close coordination among all stakeholders to resolve the issues promptly and strengthen Pakistan’s trade and economic landscape.
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