Pakistan Removed from High-Risk Maritime List, Boost for Sea Trade

Pakistan has been removed from the international High-Risk Maritime Areas list, a major development for the country’s maritime trade.

The Joint War Committee had expanded the list on March 3, 2026, due to rising tensions in the Middle East. Bahrain, Djibouti, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar were added to the list, along with Pakistan’s coastal areas.

Ships operating in high-risk areas usually face higher insurance costs because of risks linked to war, terrorism and other maritime threats.

Pakistan started efforts to be removed from the list as the higher insurance costs were affecting maritime trade. On the directions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, a committee led by the Minister for Maritime Affairs held talks with Lloyd’s officials.

Pakistan presented technical evidence and security data during the discussions, which helped make progress on the issue.

The Joint War Committee has now removed Pakistan and its territorial waters from the international High-Risk Maritime Areas list.

Following the decision, ships calling at Pakistani ports will no longer face additional war-risk insurance requirements, helping reduce costs and supporting maritime trade, regional connectivity and transshipment activities.