Key points
- Pakistan-Denmark trade volume reaches $285.99 million
- A 31pc increase was reported in the first eight months of FY 2024-25
- Pakistan’s exports to Denmark have grown by 2pc
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwaar Chaudhry has said that Denmark’s $2 billion investment in the country’s port sector was moving forward, with Danish investors actively collaborating with the government to accelerate the process.
According to Pakistan’s state-run news agency, APP, Denmark and Pakistan share strong economic relations, with a significant increase in bilateral trade of late. A 31 per cent surge was recorded in the first eight months of FY 2024-25, bringing the total trade volume to $285.99 million.
According to government data, Pakistan’s exports to Denmark grew by 2 per cent to $207.40m, while imports from Denmark rose by 42 per cent to $78.59m, showcasing a balanced and expanding trade relationship.
Talking to the local media during his introductory visit to Port Qasim, the minister highlighted that the port’s land will be allocated strictly for industrial purposes and sold transparently to genuine investors.
Karachi’s infrastructure
The minister further invited investors and the Sindh government to join hands with the Ministry of Maritime Affairs in improving Karachi’s infrastructure, APP reported.
“The ministry is committed to enhancing the city’s infrastructure, but such projects require the collaboration of the Sindh government,” he emphasised.
Chaudhry promised to expedite and improve the ministry’s projects and processes on a fast track, including establishing a clear policy for lands under Port Qasim, the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) and the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC), APP reported.
Chaudhry said that the ministry has sought plans from its subsidiaries with monthly progress reviews scheduled. Additionally, a special cell will be set up to fast-track maritime affairs related to Islamabad.
Danish shipping company
Last November, Danish international container shipping company Maersk Line pledged to invest $2bn in Pakistan’s maritime sector, with the government expressing willingness to collaborate, APP reported.
During a meeting with the officials of the shipping giant, then-Minister for Maritime Affairs Qaiser Ahmed Shaikh described the investment as a significant achievement for Pakistan’s shipping and logistics industry, underscoring the potential for long-term economic benefits from enhanced cooperation.
