KARACHI, July 11: The Port Qasim handled a record volume of 16.15 million tons of cargo during the financial year 2002-03 as compared to 13.95 million tons a year ago, showing a growth of 16 per cent.

Officials said on Friday ship callings also increased from 566 to 679, showing an increase of 20 per cent. A conducive atmosphere has been developed to boost box trade at the port.

As a result of this improvement box trade surpassed the previous target and showed an exceptional growth of more than 68 per cent during the fiscal 2002-03 over the previous year.

Due to all round performance, higher port activity and cargo handling, the Port Qasim made a net profit of Rs916.98 million during the fiscal 2002-03, showing a tremendous increase of 65.1 per cent over Rs555.50 million earned a year ago.

The officials said during last fiscal the collectorate of customs at the Port Qasim collected Rs44.75 billion as compared to Rs33.23 billion during the financial year 2001-02, showing an increase of 35 per cent in the form of duties and taxes.

The revenue collected by the Port Qasim is mainly generated by taxes and duties imposed on import of bulk cargo comprising palm oil, soyabean oil and raw materials for soap industry, petrol and diesel products.