Maritime Sector Revolution: Historic Progress in Shipbuilding, Recycling and Fisheries
Islamabad / Karachi — Landmark measures have officially been launched under the Prime Minister’s Task Force on Maritime Reforms to make Pakistan’s maritime sector self-reliant and profitable. Under the government’s strategy, work is progressing rapidly on the revival of commercial shipyards, expansion of the national fleet, restoration of ship recycling and implementation of a five-year aquaculture development plan.
Revival of Shipbuilding and Expansion of National Cargo Capacity
For the first time since the 1980s, the process of establishing commercial shipyards in Karachi has been revived, paving the way for the local construction of large commercial vessels and cargo ships. At the same time, the National Logistics Cell (NLC)’s entry into the shipping sector has strengthened national capacity in transportation and reinforced the commitment to carrying import and export cargo through Pakistani vessels.
Key Economic and Industrial Milestones
Expansion of PNSC Fleet: Pakistan National Shipping Corporation is expanding its fleet to 54 vessels, aiming to raise the national share in cargo transportation to a historic level.
Revival of Ship Recycling: After an eight-year hiatus, the ship recycling industry has been reactivated, with 16 private recycling yards now established.
Adoption of the Hong Kong Convention: By implementing international regulations for environmentally friendly and safe ship recycling, Pakistan has opened its doors to European and global buyers.
Five-Year Roadmap for Fishermen: A five-year development plan has been prepared to modernize fisheries and aquaculture, with the primary objective of improving the economic conditions of coastal communities and fishermen.
Maritime Sector Activated as a New Engine of the National Economy
According to experts, comprehensive reforms in shipbuilding, green ship recycling and the fisheries industry will not only help save billions of dollars in foreign exchange but also create millions of new employment opportunities in coastal areas. These developments are expected to help Pakistan emerge as a strong regional maritime power.