Maaz Mahmood highlights importance of developing Gwadar Port as a fully functional deep-sea hub
ISLAMABAD: The All Pakistan Business Forum has said that Pakistan is steadily emerging as an attractive trade and transshipment hub, as changing global dynamics and regional disruptions redirect commercial activity toward the country’s ports.
APBF President Syed Maaz Mahmood and Chairman Ibrahim Qureshi noted that recent developments indicate a significant shift in global trade patterns, creating new opportunities for Pakistan to strengthen its position in regional and international logistics.
They highlighted the sharp rise in transshipment activity at major ports, including Karachi Port, Port Qasim, and Gwadar Port. According to recent data, Karachi Port alone handled around 8,313 containers in just 24 days, nearly matching the total volume of approximately 8,300 containers processed during the entire year of 2025.
“This extraordinary increase reflects growing confidence of international shipping lines in Pakistan’s port infrastructure and operational efficiency,” said Syed Maaz Mahmood. He added that disruptions in Gulf shipping routes and ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, have forced global carriers to explore alternative routes, positioning Pakistan as a viable and secure option.
Industry reports show that major terminals at Karachi have played a critical role in handling the recent surge. The South Asia Pakistan Terminal processed over 5,200 containers, while Hutchison Ports Pakistan and Karachi Gateway Terminal also managed significant volumes, demonstrating the country’s enhanced capacity to handle increased maritime traffic.
Chairman Ibrahim Qureshi said that Pakistan’s strategic geographic location gives it a natural advantage in becoming a regional logistics hub. “Situated at the crossroads of South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East, Pakistan has the potential to serve as a gateway for regional and global trade,” he noted.
The APBF leadership also credited improvements in infrastructure under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor, which has significantly upgraded road networks, port facilities, and connectivity across the country. These developments have enhanced Pakistan’s ability to facilitate efficient cargo movement and attract foreign investment.
They further appreciated the government’s recent decision to revise international transshipment regulations, allowing cargo handling through both maritime and air routes. This policy shift, they said, will streamline trade processes, reduce delays, and improve Pakistan’s competitiveness in global logistics.
However, APBF leaders stressed that sustaining this momentum requires consistent policy support and long-term planning. Syed Maaz Mahmood urged the government to further simplify customs procedures, reduce port charges, and ensure transparency in regulatory frameworks to attract more international shipping lines.
Ibrahim Qureshi emphasised the need to strengthen security measures and digitalise port operations to meet international standards. “To become a permanent transshipment hub, Pakistan must ensure reliability, efficiency, and security at all levels of trade operations,” he said.
The forum also highlighted the importance of developing Gwadar Port as a fully functional deep-sea hub. With its strategic location and untapped potential, Gwadar can play a transformative role in regional trade if supported by adequate infrastructure and investment.
The APBF leadership expressed optimism that with the right mix of policy reforms, infrastructure development, and investor-friendly measures, Pakistan can emerge as a key commercial hub for South Asia and beyond, turning current global challenges into lasting economic opportunities.
