ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry on Sunday announced storage charge waivers ranging from 25 to 50 per cent at Karachi Port Trust (KPT) terminals to facilitate exporters affected by recent disruptions in Gulf-bound shipments.

Following consultations with terminal operators to address exporters’ concerns, retired Rear Admiral Shahid Ahmed, the chairman of KPT, led the initiative on the minister’s direction. The effort secured waivers of 50 per cent at KGTL from March 1 to 20, 2026; 50 per cent at KICT from March 1 to 10, 2026; and 25 per cent at SAPT from March 11 to 31, 2026.

The minister said these measures apply to export containers stranded at terminal yards that could not be loaded due to operational issues. “The waivers aim to reduce financial pressure on importers and exporters, clear pending consignments, and improve cargo clearance efficiency,” he added.

In a statement, Chaudhry said the move marks a positive step to support the export sector, ensure trade continuity, and ease logistical bottlenecks.

Relief aimed at exporters affected by disruptions in Gulf-bound shipments

“Maritime institutions are being encouraged to adopt a more facilitative and trade-friendly approach so that operational delays do not result in avoidable costs for stakeholders,” he said.

The minister emphasised the need for improved coordination among ports and terminal operators to ensure smoother logistics and better service delivery.

He described such relief measures as part of a broader strategy to make the maritime sector more responsive and competitive, and better aligned with national trade priorities. He added that efficient port operations are vital for economic stability, export growth, and investor confidence.

Published in Dawn, April 27th, 2026