KARACHI – In a major step toward modernizing Pakistan’s trade infrastructure, the government is gearing up to launch a Port Community System (PCS) that aims to streamline cross-border trade, slash clearance times, and cut down on costs.
The new system is expected to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Karachi during the first week of August, according to Syed Aftab Haider, CEO of Pakistan Single Window (PSW)—the organization behind the initiative.
“This is going to be a game changer,” Haider told reporters. “It will drastically reduce the time it takes to clear containers at our ports.”
Currently, cargo containers at Pakistani ports can remain grounded for over 24 hours—a significant delay compared to international benchmarks. Haider pointed out that ports in Singapore, Dubai, and Hong Kong typically process containers in just two to three hours, underscoring the need for Pakistan to catch up.
Big Results, Small Price Tag
Remarkably, the entire PCS project has been developed for just $5.5 million, well below the initial estimate of $63 million. The cost-effective rollout was made possible through financial backing from the World Bank, USAID, and the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
Haider said the savings were the result of strategic project management and local innovation. “We managed to keep costs low without compromising on quality,” he said.
Smart Tech at the Ports
The system, now entering its implementation phase, includes advanced tracking and clearance technology. Containers will be equipped with modern digital tools designed to improve efficiency, transparency, and coordination among port stakeholders—from customs and terminal operators to shipping lines and logistics providers.
“By integrating all major players on a single digital platform, PCS will not only reduce paperwork but also ensure smoother operations at every step of the process,” Haider added.
Trade experts say the move is long overdue. Pakistan’s ports have long been criticized for being bogged down by bureaucracy, inefficiency, and outdated systems—all of which contribute to higher costs and slower turnaround times for importers and exporters alike.
With the PCS on the horizon, officials hope to change that narrative.
