Islamabad: Pakistan Customs has announced a series of measures to alleviate congestion at the Karachi International Container Terminal (KICT) and the South Asia Pakistan Terminal (SAPT). The congestion results from a significant rise in trade activity in July 2026, linked to improved global economic conditions and eased security tensions in the Persian Gulf.

According to Press Information Department, the increase in maritime activity is evident with vessel calls at SAPT and KICT rising to 56 from 49 compared to the previous year, marking a 14.3% increase. Container throughput at SAPT increased by 12.0%, reaching 52,314 TEUs. To handle this volume, Pakistan Customs has enhanced its clearance operations, with examinations in July 2026 reaching 4,298, up from 4,007 in 2025.

A senior official from Pakistan Customs emphasized their commitment to facilitating trade while maintaining regulatory oversight. Measures include optimal examiner staffing at all ports and operations on Sundays to ensure timely cargo clearance. Customs is monitoring congestion daily and coordinating with trade representatives and terminal management to resolve the situation swiftly.

Under the Maritime Task Force, reforms have been initiated to streamline operations, such as shifting over 2,000 containers to off-docks and installing scanners for Non-Intrusive Inspections. These reforms aim to enhance transparency and efficiency, supporting Pakistan’s position as a regional trade hub.

Pakistan Customs continues to collaborate with stakeholders to maintain these standards and ensure seamless trade facilitation, while monitoring developments in the strait of Hormuz for emerging exigencies.