‘Pakistan’s Maritime Sector Achieves Major Leap as Global Ranking Improves by 30 Percent’

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has achieved significant progress in the global maritime sector, with its international ranking improving by 30 percent following a series of reforms and operational improvements, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Maritime Task Force Iftikhar Ahmad Rao announced on Thursday.

Addressing a press conference alongside senior officials from the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Rao highlighted Pakistan’s strategic importance in global maritime trade, noting that nearly 80 percent of international trade is carried out through sea routes.

He said Pakistan’s geographic location provides the country with a vital position in the Gulf region and makes it an important gateway for trade connectivity with Central Asia.

Rao said the Maritime Task Force was established in August 2024 to identify challenges facing the maritime sector and develop recommendations for improvement. After extensive consultations with relevant institutions, the task force submitted its proposals to the prime minister in December 2024.

An implementation committee was also formed to monitor progress on the recommendations, with regular meetings being held to ensure effective execution of reforms, he added.

According to Rao, additional customs personnel were deployed to improve efficiency and speed up maritime operations. These measures contributed to Pakistan’s improved global standing, moving the country to 69th position in international maritime rankings.

He further stated that Port Qasim has now emerged among the world’s five best-performing ports, while Pakistan’s shipping sector has also witnessed notable growth and improvement.

Highlighting recent policy measures, Rao said the government has removed sales tax on the purchase of shipbuilding materials in the latest budget. He added that customs duties for the shipping sector had already been abolished last year, while a new law related to shipbreaking had also been introduced.

Officials said the continued reforms are aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s maritime economy, enhancing port efficiency, attracting investment, and transforming the country into a major regional trade and logistics hub.

The improvement in maritime rankings reflects Pakistan’s growing focus on developing its blue economy and utilizing its strategic coastline to boost economic growth and international connectivity.