Pakistan has taken a major step to enhance its maritime trade network with the launch of a new feeder shipping service connecting Karachi Port to the United Arab Emirates, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced on Friday.
The new service, operated through Karachi Gateway Terminal (Private) Limited, will link Karachi with the UAE ports of Fujairah and Khor Fakkan, providing Pakistani importers and exporters with reliable access to international container shipping networks.
“The service establishes a regular shipping connection via KGTL, part of AD Ports Group’s Noatum Ports, with the first vessel arriving on 11 March, marking the official start of operations,” Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said, highlighting the importance of the link for trade continuity and supply chain efficiency.
Rear Admiral Shahid Ahmed said the feeder service strengthens Karachi Port’s connections with regional hubs, facilitating smoother cargo movement and greater flexibility for Pakistan’s trading community.
Khurram Aziz Khan, CEO of KGTL, added that the service reinforces Karachi Gateway Terminal’s role as a key gateway for international trade, providing importers and exporters with direct access to major UAE transhipment hubs and global shipping networks.
Federal Minister Junaid Chaudhry emphasized that Pakistan’s economic growth relies heavily on maritime trade, and enhanced connectivity with regional ports adds resilience for exporters while supporting the country’s expanding trade requirements.