KARACHI, July 22: The Port Qasim Authority handled a record cargo volume of 26.4 million tons in 2007-08 showing a growth of 9 per cent over the previous year.

Shipping activity however showed a marginal decline of one per cent due to larger container vessels calling consequent upon increase in port parameters and acquisition of powerful tugs.

According to official figures released on Tuesday, the Qasim International Container Terminal (QICT) handled a record 0.75 million boxes registering a growth of 14 per cent over the previous year.

Similarly, Fotco Oil Terminal, which accounts for 50 per cent of country’s POL imports, handled an unprecedented 8.7 million tons of petroleum cargo.

Cargo handling at Marginal wharf, run by the PQA itself, stood at 5.1 million tons, an increase of 32 per cent over the previous year.

Throughput at Engro VoPak Terminal, which provides port facilities for entire liquid chemical imports, grew by three per cent at 0.84 million tons in 2007-08, says a press release.