On November 4, 2025, in Karachi, the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) expressed significant concerns over the shipping lines’ practices, particularly regarding the exorbitant dollar exchange rates they impose. These rates reportedly reached as high as Rs296.20 per US dollar, surpassing even those found in informal markets like hawala and hundi. This issue has raised fears among importers and traders, as they feel exploited by these excessive charges.
During a KCCI meeting, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar was briefed by KCCI President Muhammad Rehan Hanif. Hanif highlighted the critical situation at ports, noting severe congestion and overall inefficiencies. He urged the government to implement fair exchange rate practices and enhance regulatory oversight over shipping agents. Minister Anwar acknowledged these concerns and reassured the KCCI of the government’s support for the business community. He also emphasized the need for private investment to bolster Pakistan’s maritime sector.
Anwar announced plans to strengthen the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) fleet by increasing its size by 50% with the addition of five new vessels. This initiative aims to improve maritime services and enhance trade efficiency.
Moreover, the minister proposed the establishment of a 140-acre industrial park at the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) as part of a public-private partnership. This development would provide land for industrial growth, with the private sector managing operations. He firmly opposed utilizing port lands for real estate ventures, insisting they should remain focused on trade and logistics.
Several prominent business leaders, including Zubair Motiwala, Jawed Bilwani, and Anjum Nisar, raised additional pressing issues. These included the lack of a bypass road in Karachi, persistent energy shortages, and noted bureaucratic inefficiencies that have led to the decline of PNSC. They also reiterated KCCI’s call for a regulatory authority to oversee shipping agents and promote fair trading practices.
In conclusion, Minister Anwar assured that any complaints regarding terminal or port-related entities would receive prompt attention from the government. He committed to the long-term goal of achieving 100% port capacity utilization by 2047, reinforcing the ministry’s dedication to fostering a competitive and efficient maritime environment in Pakistan.
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