KARACHI, Feb 8: Pakistan Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has termed the port congestion surcharge levied by shipping companies at the rate of $100 per 20 ft container and $200 for a 40 ft container as unjustified.

In a meeting of the National Trade and Transport Facilitation Cell (NTTFC) Sohail Shams, chairman All Pakistan Shipping Association announced his members’ decision to defer the surcharge till February 15 but on the request of the committee he agreed to get it extended up to March 1.

The committee, however, felt that the congestion at ports, if any, would ease as Pakistan Railways has offered 200 bogies daily to transport goods from Karachi to the dry ports in upcountry. Secondly, the committee requested the government that wheat should be transported to the upcountry only by train and trucks may be used for other kind of goods.

FPCCI President Tanvir Ahmad Sheikh has demanded immediate withdrawal of the congestion surcharge as it is increasing the costs.—PPI