Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced on Sunday that the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) has achieved the highest annual cargo handling volume in its 138-year history, calling it a reflection of the growing maritime sector and improved port efficiency. KPT surpassed its previous all-time cargo handling record of 54.685 million tonnes during the current fiscal year, the minister said in a statement.
Record-Breaking Performance
The minister attributed the achievement to enhanced operational efficiency, effective management, and increased port capacity. In a post on X on Friday, KPT described the milestone as "a new chapter in Pakistan's maritime history" and said it reflected the Federal Ministry of Maritime Affairs' efforts to strengthen the country's maritime sector. The previous record of 54.685 million tonnes was set in the 2017–18 fiscal year.
Minister's Remarks
Chaudhry said the record marked significant progress for Pakistan's maritime economy, port infrastructure, and trade, adding that it reflected the success of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs' reform agenda and the institution's professional capabilities. He congratulated KPT Chairman Rear Admiral (R) Shahid Ahmed, the port's officers and employees, as well as other stakeholders, for what he described as the result of coordinated planning, teamwork, and sustained efforts.
Future Plans
The minister said the government was continuing measures to modernise the ports, expand their capacity, strengthen logistics infrastructure, and provide facilities in line with international standards to enhance Pakistan's position as a regional maritime and trade hub. He reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to modernising all national ports, attracting investment, and promoting trade activities to support economic growth.
Chairman's Response
KPT Chairman Rear Admiral Shahid Ahmed also congratulated the port's workforce, saying the achievement reflected the organisation's professionalism, effective strategy, and teamwork. He added that efforts would continue to improve the port's operational performance and competitiveness.
