Port Qasim container yard in Pakistan under reduced export charges policy.
ISLAMABAD — In a significant move aimed at energizing Pakistan’s trade sector, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs has reduced Port Qasim export charges by 50 percent.
The decision, effective from July 1, 2025, is intended to provide immediate relief to exporters and promote economic activity through maritime routes.
According to the official notification, the rate reduction applies to export and transshipment containers operating through terminals such as Marginal Wharf, FOTCO, and PIBT.
The revised tariff structure also eases charges for containerized cargo handled at DP World, although empty containers are excluded from the concessions.
Export Relief Policy Targets Cargo Growth and Trade Efficiency
The temporary cut in Port Qasim export charges will remain in place for one year, with government officials calling it a “strategic relief measure” to enhance shipping activity.
Trade stakeholders believe the move could lower export costs significantly and drive up volume at one of the country’s busiest ports.
Announcing the initiative during a strategic policy meeting, Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry highlighted the government’s agenda to ease the cost of doing business.
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He said the reduction is part of a broader effort to stimulate growth in port logistics and fisheries, particularly benefiting domestic exporters.
Maritime Sector Reforms Include Aquaculture and Ship Recycling Gains
The export charge reductions come alongside wider reforms in the maritime sector. The minister revealed plans to establish an Aquaculture Industrial Zone to support marine-based industries. A new national policy for marine and aquaculture development is also being finalized.
Meanwhile, the marine fisheries sector has reported exceeding its export target of $410 million, fueled by growing global demand.
Pakistan’s ship recycling industry has also contributed Rs6 billion in revenue this fiscal year, demonstrating the port sector’s expanding role in the national economy.
Green Shipping and Port Incentives Reflect New Trade Priorities
The government is also aligning port operations with green shipping standards to reduce environmental impact.
Minister Chaudhry noted that upcoming sustainability measures will complement tariff incentives such as the Port Qasim export charges reduction, enhancing the port’s appeal to regional and international shipping lines.
Business groups and exporters have welcomed the tariff cuts, describing them as “crucial and timely.” With this relief in place, trade observers are watching closely to see whether Pakistan’s ports can regain momentum in the face of rising global competition and regional logistics shifts.
