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ISLAMABAD: With the implementation of facilitation measures, long queues of container ships have begun forming at Karachi ports as global shipping lines divert vessels to Pakistan, seeking safer routes amid increased risks in the Strait of Hormuz due to the ongoing Middle East conflict.
The government has also established specialised sub-committees to recommend structural reforms in the maritime and logistics sectors. It has already reduced port charges to boost competitiveness, sped up the clearance of long-pending cargo, and implemented targeted policy measures to support transhipment activity.
Industry officials said the diversion has triggered an unprecedented surge in transhipment activity at Karachi ports, positioning Pakistan as an emerging alternative hub outside vulnerable maritime chokepoints.
Official data showed transhipment volumes at Karachi port reached 8,860 containers in just the last 24 days, while comparing with the annual volume of 8,300 containers in 2025. This clearly shows a sharp acceleration in cargo rerouting.
