Islamabad: Direct shipping connectivity between Karachi and major European ports has been reinstated, a move expected to benefit exporters struggling with increased freight costs and longer transit times. This development was announced by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, who highlighted the restoration as a significant relief for the export sector.

According to Press Information Department: Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has reinstated its PREMIUM IPAK service, addressing exporters’ demands for a dedicated Europe shipping route. The service will see weekly calls at Karachi Gateway Terminal International (KGTI), facilitating direct connections to European destinations such as Felixstowe, Rotterdam, Hamburg, Bremerhaven, Antwerp, Le Havre, and London Gateway via Colombo.

The minister underscored the importance of the restored service, particularly for the textile industry, which has been adversely affected by disruptions in international shipping routes. He noted that textile exporters had reported difficulties due to extended vessel journeys, which were inflating transportation costs and impacting the competitiveness of Pakistani shipments in European and U.S. markets.

Efforts are being made by the government to address these concerns with shipping lines and stakeholders to enhance maritime connectivity, the minister said. He emphasized the necessity of reliable shipping services for bolstering Pakistan’s trade and reducing logistical challenges.

Welcoming MSC’s decision, the minister expressed that the weekly Karachi call would offer exporters improved options for planning and shipment movement. However, he cautioned that while this service alleviates certain pressures, broader challenges in international shipping persist and require continued collaboration between the shipping industry and exporters.

The government, Chaudhry added, is committed to advancing port and shipping services to boost exporters’ competitiveness. He commended the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) and Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited (KGTL) for their roles in restoring this crucial shipping link.

KPT Chairman Rear Admiral (retd) Shahid Ahmed assured that efforts are underway to enhance the efficiency of the maritime logistics system, further supporting the country’s access to key European markets and facilitating export activities.