Pakistan is set to upgrade its national shipping fleet by 600% over the next three years, to improve efficiency, cut freight costs, and adopt cleaner maritime technologies. Pakistan’s Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, made the expansion announcement on Tuesday.
The move is part of a wider strategy to improve maritime infrastructure and enhance the country’s role in regional trade with a focus on incorporating greener technologies and energy-efficient vessels into the state-owned fleet.
Speaking at a high-level meeting, Chaudhry said the project reflects Pakistan’s long-term vision for the maritime sector.
“This initiative reflects our broader vision to modernize the maritime sector, boost operational efficiency, and introduce advanced technologies across all institutions,” he said.
The minister explained that the fleet expansion is expected to reduce Pakistan’s sea freight bills and help conserve foreign exchange reserves. He also emphasised the environmental aspect of the effort, which focuses on developing a more energy-efficient and climate-resilient maritime system.
Chaudhry added that future acquisitions will prioritise greener technologies and energy-efficient vessels for the state-owned fleet, in line with the country’s commitment to climate-smart growth.
Pakistan has been seeking to revitalise its maritime capabilities in recent years, with ports such as Karachi and Gwadar playing an increasingly important role in trade through the Arabian Sea. The government has also faced growing pressure to reduce the country’s reliance on foreign shipping lines and cut freight costs that weigh on its balance of payments.