Islamabad: Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced on Thursday the freezing of a proposed 5 percent increase in Karachi Port Trust (KPT) tariffs for the fiscal year 2026-27. This decision aims to provide substantial relief to the business community, supporting trade and economic activity.

According to Press Information Department, the Minister stated that the decision is expected to benefit importers, exporters, and consumers by more than Rs500 million, reducing the financial burden on trade and economic activity. “This measure is fully aligned with the federal government’s policy of facilitating the business community, promoting trade and exports, and supporting sustainable economic growth,” Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said.

He highlighted that ports serve as the backbone of trade infrastructure and any increase in port charges directly raises the cost of doing business. By freezing the tariff adjustment, the government aims to contain logistics costs and enhance the competitiveness of Pakistani products in international markets.

The Minister further emphasized that the decision reflects the Prime Minister’s vision for strengthening the blue economy and creating a business-friendly environment that encourages investment, trade expansion, and economic development. Junaid Anwar Chaudhry expressed confidence that the tariff freeze would help maintain the competitiveness of exports, ease operational costs for importers, and contribute to higher trade volumes through Pakistan’s ports.

He also added that the government remains committed to undertaking practical measures that support economic stability, facilitate commerce, and provide relief to the business community amid ongoing economic challenges.