Karachi: Pakistan’s maritime sector is entering a new phase of development, with major initiatives underway to revive local capacity and promote self-reliance in shipbuilding, ship recycling, and fisheries under the Prime Minister’s Task Force on Maritime Reforms. For the first time since the 1980s, construction of commercial shipyards has resumed in Karachi, signaling a significant shift in the country’s maritime strategy.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation is expanding its fleet to fifty-four vessels to promote the use of national shipping in the transportation of domestic cargo. This expansion is part of a broader effort to boost the country’s shipping capabilities. With the entry of the National Logistics Cell into the shipping sector, there is a concerted push to enhance domestic capacity and self-reliance in national cargo transportation. Relevant institutions, including the NLC, are actively working to improve the shipping, shipbuilding, ship recycling, and fisheries sectors.

Additionally, a five-year development plan has been prepared to promote fisheries and aquaculture. The plan aims to significantly increase the income of farmers, fishermen, and coastal communities, reflecting a comprehensive approach to revitalizing the maritime industry.