Karachi: As part of efforts to further strengthen Pakistan’s port and logistics capabilities, Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited (KGTL) has indicated a new investment of $75 to $100 million over the next five years. The plan comes at a time when Pakistan is trying to capitalize on growing opportunities in trade and transit activities in the region.
According to the company’s Chief Executive Officer Khurram Aziz Khan, a $60 million dredging project has already been completed at Karachi Port, which has resulted in significant improvement in the port’s depth and ability to handle large ships. Now, the next phase will focus on expanding the container terminal, increasing yard capacity, installing modern cranes, constructing warehouses and special infrastructure for bulk cargo.
According to experts, investment in Pakistan’s port facilities will not only boost trade activities but can also help reduce import and export costs. The disruptions in the global supply chain in recent years have further highlighted the importance of countries strengthening their port capacity and logistics networks.
Khurram Aziz Khan said that the company is also exploring investment opportunities in the rail freight sector. Under this project, storage hubs can be established near agricultural areas, while locomotives and rolling stock for freight trains can also be introduced. These measures are aimed at transporting agricultural products to ports more efficiently and reducing the cost of exports.
He said that Pakistan has significant potential in exporting rice, maize and other agricultural commodities, but an integrated logistics system is essential to fully utilize this potential. If rail and port infrastructure are effectively linked, it is possible to significantly increase export competitiveness.
Karachi Port has temporarily experienced an increase in transshipment activities during the recent regional tensions and the impact on maritime transport in the Gulf region. Some cargo ships have turned to Karachi as an alternative route, giving Pakistan its first practical experience in this sector.
Analysts say that if Pakistan seizes this opportunity to improve its port facilities, roads and railway connections, it can become one of the region’s major trading hubs in the future. However, sustained policy support, modern infrastructure and private sector investment are key to this.
The proposed investment by KGTL is being described as part of a broader strategy aimed at increasing Pakistan’s trade capacity, reducing logistics costs and further strengthening the country’s role in regional trade.
