Pakistan has announced a major relief measure for exporters by waiving 25% to 50% of storage charges at Karachi Port Trust terminals for containers stranded after recent disruptions in Gulf-bound shipments.
Maritime Affairs Minister Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced the decision on Sunday following consultations with terminal operators to address exporters’ concerns over delayed cargo movement and rising costs.
The waivers were arranged through an initiative led by Karachi Port Trust Chairman Rear Admiral Shahid Ahmed on the minister’s instructions.
Under the plan, Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited will provide a 50% waiver on storage charges for the period from March 1 to March 20, 2026. Karachi International Container Terminal will also offer a 50% waiver from March 1 to March 10, while South Asia Pakistan Terminals will grant a 25% waiver from March 11 to March 31.
The relief applies to export containers that remained stuck in terminal yards and could not be loaded due to operational disruptions.
The minister said the move is aimed at reducing financial pressure on exporters, clearing pending consignments, and improving cargo clearance efficiency.
He described the step as important support for Pakistan’s export sector, helping maintain trade continuity while easing logistical bottlenecks.
Chaudhry added that maritime institutions are being encouraged to adopt a more trade-friendly and facilitative approach so that delays do not create unnecessary costs for businesses.
He also stressed the need for stronger coordination between ports and terminal operators, saying efficient port operations are vital for economic stability, export growth, and investor confidence.
