Karachi: The Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, has announced a waiver of demurrage charges on auctionable containers at the Karachi Port Trust (KPT). This initiative, undertaken in collaboration with the port’s private terminals, aims to alleviate port congestion and facilitate smoother operations.
According to Radio Pakistan, the Minister stated that KPT will not impose demurrage on auctionable and auctioned containers if they are cleared within seven days post-auction. This policy is expected to expedite the customs clearance process, aiding the trade sector by minimizing delays caused by containers stuck at the port. The initiative is also anticipated to create additional space for transshipment cargo arriving in Karachi.
Junaid Chaudhry emphasized that the waiver represents KPT’s proactive approach to addressing congestion issues and underscores its commitment to contributing to Pakistan’s economic growth through active terminal participation.