Key Points
- Weekly service links Karachi with major European container hubs
- Exporters had faced longer routes and higher freight costs
- Textile industry among the main beneficiaries of restored connectivity
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has restored a direct shipping connection between Karachi and major European ports, easing pressure on exporters facing longer transit times and higher freight costs because of disruptions to international maritime routes, the Maritime Affairs Ministry said Thursday.
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has reinstated its PREMIUM IPAK service in response to exporters’ demand for a dedicated Europe route.
The service will operate a weekly call at Karachi Gateway Terminal International, linking Pakistan’s largest port with Colombo before continuing to Felixstowe, Rotterdam, Hamburg, Bremerhaven, Antwerp, Le Havre and London Gateway.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the restoration was particularly important for export-oriented industries, including textiles, which have been affected by longer shipping journeys and higher logistics costs.
“Exporters told me in a recent meeting that longer vessel journeys were increasing transportation costs and delivery times for shipments to European and US markets,” Chaudhry said.
He said the additional costs and delays were affecting the competitiveness of Pakistani exporters and that the government was raising their concerns with shipping lines and other stakeholders.
The disruptions have been particularly significant since attacks on commercial shipping in and around the Red Sea prompted many major carriers to divert vessels around the Cape of Good Hope in southern Africa.
The longer route between Asia and Europe increases sailing distances, fuel consumption and transit times.
A predictable weekly service can also make it easier for exporters to plan deliveries and manage inventory.
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Chaudhry said reliable shipping connectivity was essential for Pakistan’s export sector and that the government wanted the maritime industry to reduce logistical bottlenecks and strengthen the country’s access to international markets.
He welcomed MSC’s decision to restore the PREMIUM IPAK service, saying the weekly Karachi call would expand options for exporters to move cargo to major European markets.
“Disruptions to established shipping routes continue to have implications for global trade,” he said, adding that the government would continue working with shipping companies and exporters to address connectivity and logistics issues.
Pakistan seeks better shipping
The government is seeking to improve port and shipping services as part of wider efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s trade competitiveness.
Lower, more predictable logistics costs are important for exporters competing in international markets where delivery times and freight rates can influence sourcing decisions.
Chaudhry also praised Karachi Port Trust Chairman Rear Admiral (retd) Shahid Ahmed and the management of Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited for efforts in restoring the shipping connection between Karachi and European markets.
Shahid Ahmed said measures were also underway to improve the efficiency of Pakistan’s maritime logistics system.
He said the restored connection would improve access to key European markets and facilitate exporters by providing another regular shipping option from Karachi.
Pakistan’s exports rely heavily on maritime transport, with Karachi handling a substantial share of the country’s containerised trade.
Direct connectivity can therefore help reduce dependence on longer or less predictable routes and support exporters facing intense competition in global markets.
