KARACHI: Pakistan’s maritime trade remains largely stable despite escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, as oil shipments continue to reach Karachi Port without significant disruption.
A tanker operated by the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation, MT Sargodha, has successfully offloaded crude oil imported from Fujairah, ensuring continued fuel supply to the country.
Officials confirmed that additional tankers, including MT Shalimar and MT Lahore, are expected to arrive in the coming days, maintaining the flow of crude oil at a time when global shipping routes are facing uncertainty.
However, concerns have emerged regarding delays in LNG shipments, with some cargoes reportedly stuck due to the evolving regional situation. Experts warn that prolonged disruptions could affect Pakistan’s energy balance in the near term.
Port operations have remained active across multiple segments. MT Martini is scheduled to load locally produced fuel oil, while MT Hafnia Henriette and MT Wan HE have handled shipments of naphtha and ethanol. MT Eva Gold has already departed after completing ethanol exports.
Cargo handling at the port continues at a strong pace, with over 60,000 tonnes of containerised goods processed alongside bulk commodities such as soybean meal imports and rice exports. Overall activity has approached 80,000 tonnes, with around 19 vessels expected to berth.
Authorities say the steady flow of shipping activity reflects operational resilience, although regional tensions remain a key risk factor.
