Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has announced that Port Qasim will undergo a major modernization drive to help Pakistan achieve its $100 billion annual revenue target. The port is expected to contribute nearly half of that goal, underscoring its growing role as a major industrial and trade hub.
Speaking at a ceremony marking Port Qasim’s recognition as the ninth most improved container port in the world, the minister said the milestone reflects the success of ongoing reforms. “Port Qasim improved its performance score by 35.2 points, showing real progress in cutting cargo dwell time and streamlining berth operations,” he said.
Chaudhry explained that the government aims to transform Port Qasim into a regional maritime and industrial gateway. The focus is on expanding infrastructure, promoting industrialization, and implementing green maritime initiatives to support sustainable economic growth.
He highlighted the government’s $13 billion “Sea-to-Steel Green Maritime Industrial Corridor,” designed to revive Pakistan Steel Mills. The initiative will link port operations directly with industrial production, creating a continuous value chain from maritime logistics to steel manufacturing.
In the second phase of this plan, the Iron Ore and Coal Berth (IOCB) terminal will oversee the corridor’s industrial integration. The project also includes the establishment of an Integrated Maritime Industrial Complex (IMIC), connecting ship recycling facilities and steel manufacturing to boost domestic output and job creation.
The Port Qasim Authority (PQA) is leading multiple projects to expand capacity and efficiency. These include new multipurpose and container terminals, a Port Qasim Special Economic Zone (PQSEZ), and the adoption of eco-friendly “Green Port” technologies.
Chaudhry said PQSEZ will serve as a modern logistics and industrial hub attracting local and foreign investors. Improved road, rail, and communication networks will strengthen trade competitiveness, while energy and industrial projects within the port area will enhance national energy security.
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He reaffirmed that the government’s long-term vision is to make Port Qasim not just a cargo handling facility but a complete maritime-industrial ecosystem driving Pakistan’s economic growth.
