Pakistan has received its first roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessel carrying 2,000 Electric Vehicles, marking a major milestone for the country’s maritime and logistics sector. The shipment is the first time Pakistan has used the specialized RoRo shipping service for automobile imports.
The vessel, M.V. Grande Shanghai, arrived at Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited (KGTML) at Karachi Port. Instead of using cranes, the 2,000 Electric Vehicles were driven directly off the ship through built-in ramps. This process reduced unloading time and improved overall efficiency at the port.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry described the arrival as an important achievement for Pakistan’s maritime industry. He said the development reflects the government’s commitment to modernizing port operations and adopting international shipping practices.
According to the minister, the shipment became possible after he approved the import of electric vehicles through RoRo services during a maritime committee meeting held last month. He said the decision would help improve trade efficiency and strengthen Pakistan’s logistics infrastructure.
RoRo, or roll-on/roll-off shipping, is commonly used around the world for transporting wheeled cargo. This includes cars, trucks, buses, and heavy machinery. Vehicles are driven directly onto and off the vessel using built-in ramps instead of being lifted by cranes.
This method makes loading and unloading faster while reducing handling costs. It also lowers the risk of damage during cargo operations, making it one of the preferred transport methods for automobile manufacturers and importers.
The arrival of 2,000 Electric Vehicles through RoRo shipping is expected to encourage the wider use of this transport system in Pakistan. Officials believe it can improve the country’s ability to handle large automobile shipments more efficiently.
The government also sees the move as an opportunity to support clean transportation. Increasing the import of electric vehicles aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote environmentally friendly mobility.
Minister Chaudhry said Pakistan is working to strengthen its connection with international shipping networks. He added that modern port infrastructure plays an important role in supporting trade and attracting global shipping companies.
The latest development is part of broader efforts to upgrade Pakistan’s maritime sector. Authorities have been introducing new measures to improve port efficiency, cargo handling, and logistics services.
Earlier this month, Port Qasim achieved another milestone by handling the largest liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargo in its history. The port safely berthed a vessel carrying 171,951 cubic meters of LNG despite severe monsoon conditions.
The Port Qasim Authority described that operation as a major success for Pakistan’s maritime capabilities and energy security. Officials believe such achievements demonstrate the country’s growing capacity to manage large-scale international shipments.
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The successful arrival of 2,000 Electric Vehicles through Pakistan’s first RoRo service represents another step toward modernizing the country’s ports. It is expected to improve trade efficiency, strengthen logistics, and support the government’s efforts to build a more competitive and sustainable transport network.
