ISLAMABAD – Over 65 American companies have expressed serious interest in investing in Pakistan’s port and maritime sector, as officials from both countries participated in a high-level webinar focused on opportunities at Karachi Port and Port Qasim.
The virtual session, titled “Gateways to Growth: South Asia Port Opportunities,” was organized by the US Departments of Commerce and State in collaboration with Pakistan’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs. The goal was to encourage US businesses to explore trade and infrastructure ventures in Pakistan’s growing port sector.
US Consul General in Karachi, Scott Urbom, highlighted the importance of connecting private sector players to boost Pakistan’s port potential and unlock new trade routes. He added that strong commercial ties between the two countries can be mutually beneficial.
Representatives from Karachi Port Trust, Port Qasim Authority, and private operators like Abu Dhabi Ports and Dubai Ports World (QICT) also participated, offering insight into port expansion plans, trade facilitation, and upcoming investment projects.
Meanwhile, Hong Kong-based Hutchison Ports has proposed a $1 billion investment to modernize its terminals at Karachi Port. The plan includes an initial $200 million phase to automate operations and develop eco-friendly logistics infrastructure, potentially generating over $4 billion in economic activity over 25 years.
Government officials said efforts are being made to remove hurdles and speed up approvals under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) to attract more foreign investment in Pakistan’s maritime economy.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.