Government Reduces Port Charges by 50% at Port Qasim to Encourage Exports
As part of its efforts to enhance exports and increase the competitiveness of Pakistan’s ports, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs has announced a 50% reduction in export cargo port charges at Port Qasim.
Figures of the Reduction:
Lower charges will be imposed on wharfage and transshipment container charges for a period of one year. Minister’s decision also covers concessions for Marginal Wharf Berths 1 and 2, as well as for Fotco and Fauji Akbar Portia terminals.
Minister’s Statement:
Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, the Maritime Affairs Minister, told that this move will enhance exports as well as bring more traffic to Port Qasim. “We are making efforts to bring cargo from Central Asia to the ports of Pakistan. Enhancing the competitiveness of our ports is crucial for this purpose,” he added.
Central Asia focus:
Pakistan is negotiating with Uzbekistan to get its maritime trade into Pakistani ports, since the majority of Central Asian nations are using Iranian or European ports for international trade at present.
Other Reforms:
Under the reforms, charges for LNG cargo handling have also been halved. In addition, containerized cargo charges at the DP World terminal have also been reduced by half, although there will not be discounts on empty containers.
Effective Immediately
Ministry of Maritime Affairs sent an advisory on Tuesday, and the new tariffs are effective already.
