Karachi: Pakistan Customs has announced a series of measures aimed at alleviating congestion at the Karachi International Container Terminal (KICT) and the South Asia Pakistan Terminal (SAPT). The initiatives are intended to improve port operations amid a rise in trade activity.

According to Radio Pakistan, the increased pressure on both terminals is due to a surge in trade activity throughout July 2026, driven by improved global economic conditions and reduced security tensions in the Persian Gulf. Vessel calls at SAPT and KICT rose to 56 between July 1 and July 25, a 14.3% increase from the same period last year. Container throughput at SAPT increased by 12.0%, reaching 52,314 TEUs.

To manage the increased volume, Pakistan Customs has enhanced its clearance operations, with examinations completed in July 2026 reaching 4,298, up from 4,007 in 2025. Fresh codes marked for examination rose by 19.9%, indicating higher clearance volumes and more containers undergoing inspection.

A senior official stated that Pakistan Customs is committed to facilitating trade while maintaining regulatory oversight. The department has optimized examiner staffing at all ports and continues to operate on Sundays to ensure timely cargo clearance. Daily monitoring of congestion and coordination with trade representatives and terminal management aim to resolve the situation by the end of the week.

Under the Maritime Task Force, Customs has shifted over 2,000 long-stuck containers to off-docks to free up terminal space. Scanners have been installed at all ports for Non-Intrusive Inspections, speeding up clearance times and reducing business costs. These measures, along with Faceless Assessment and Examination, have reduced clearance times and enhanced transparency.

The official noted that these reforms signal a new era for Pakistan’s maritime sector, aiming for efficient, transparent port operations to bolster the national economy and position Pakistan as a key regional trade hub. Pakistan Customs will continue collaborating with stakeholders to maintain these standards and ensure seamless trade facilitation. The department is also monitoring the situation in the Strait of Hormuz to address emerging exigencies.