KARACHI: Leaders of the Karachi business community have lauded the Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs and the Karachi Port Trust leadership for implementing significant relief measures in storage and demurrage charges at Karachi Port. This decision is seen as a crucial intervention to support the country's export sector amid ongoing global shipping challenges.

According to Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Chairman Businessmen Group Zubair Motiwala and KCCI President Muhammad Rehan Hanif expressed their appreciation in a joint statement for Maritime Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry's efforts in addressing exporters' concerns. They also commended the proactive involvement of KPT Chairman Rear Admiral (Retd.) Shahid Ahmed and KPT Trustee Abdullah Zaki in negotiating with terminal operators to implement these economic relief measures.

The statement highlighted coordinated efforts by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and KPT, resulting in agreements with major terminal operators such as Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited, Karachi International Container Terminal, and South Asia Pakistan Terminals. These operators have agreed to significant concessions, particularly benefiting export containers bound for Gulf countries, providing financial relief to exporters facing logistical challenges.

Motiwala and Hanif emphasized that the reduction in charges is part of a broader government initiative to bolster Pakistan's export competitiveness. The measures align with Minister Chaudhry's ongoing reform agenda aimed at enhancing Karachi Port's role as a regional transshipment hub, including various incentives to attract international shipping lines.

The relief in port charges is expected to ease the financial burden on exporters, particularly those dealing with Gulf markets, who have been grappling with delays and increased costs. The intervention is anticipated to boost confidence within the business community and contribute to improved export performance, port efficiency, and Pakistan's standing in global trade corridors.

The business leaders expressed optimism about continued collaboration between the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, KPT, and stakeholders to further streamline operations and reduce business costs, ultimately maximizing the potential of Pakistan's maritime economy. They reaffirmed KCCI's commitment to supporting government reforms and fostering sustainable economic growth through export-led development.