Pakistan has received its first-ever Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipment of electric vehicles, with more than 2,000 EVs arriving at Karachi Port. The government described the development as a major milestone for the country’s maritime, logistics, and clean transportation sectors.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced that the 220-metre RoRo vessel successfully berthed at the Karachi Gateway Terminal Multipurpose Limited (KGTML) terminal of the Karachi Port Trust (KPT). He said the successful operation reflects Pakistan’s growing capability to handle specialized cargo using modern international standards.
According to the minister, the arrival of the vessel came after he approved RoRo shipments of electric vehicles during a maritime affairs committee meeting held last month. The approval paved the way for the country’s first dedicated shipment of EVs through the Roll-on/Roll-off system.
Junaid Chaudhry said the successful handling of the vessel demonstrates the modernization of Pakistan’s port infrastructure and its ability to support advanced logistics operations. He added that the milestone also reflects Pakistan’s gradual integration into the global supply chain for clean mobility and sustainable transportation.
Explaining the importance of RoRo shipping, the minister said these vessels are specially designed to transport wheeled cargo, allowing vehicles to be driven directly on and off the ship instead of being lifted by cranes. This system significantly reduces cargo handling time, improves operational efficiency, and enhances safety during loading and unloading operations.
The vessel, identified as M.V. Grande Shanghai, completed its berthing at Karachi Port without any operational issues. Officials said the successful operation highlights the Karachi Port Trust’s commitment to adopting modern technologies and improving port services to facilitate international trade.
The arrival of more than 2,000 electric vehicles is also expected to support Pakistan’s transition toward cleaner transportation. As interest in electric vehicles continues to grow, improved import logistics could help expand the availability of EVs in the local market while supporting the government’s environmental and energy goals.
The federal minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s maritime sector through infrastructure development and technology-driven logistics. He said efforts will continue to improve the country’s connectivity with global shipping networks, enhance trade efficiency, and position Pakistani ports as competitive regional maritime hubs.
Also read: Pakistan Raises Petrol, Diesel, and Kerosene Prices
