Pakistan Launches New Karachi-UAE Feeder Shipping Service to Boost Trade

Islamabad – Pakistan has inaugurated a new feeder shipping service connecting Karachi Port to key ports in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), including Fujairah and Khor Fakkan. This development aims to enhance transshipment capabilities and improve access to global shipping networks for Pakistani traders.

Strengthening Maritime Connectivity

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, announced the launch of the service on Friday. The new feeder service is supported by Karachi Gateway Terminal (Private) Limited (KGTL), a major business partner of Karachi Port Trust (KPT). It establishes a regular shipping link between Karachi and two of the region’s key transshipment hubs, enabling Pakistani importers and exporters to maintain reliable access to global container shipping networks [Daily Business News].

Key Features of the New Service

• Route: Karachi Port to Fujairah and Khor Fakkan in the UAE.
• Operator: Supported by Karachi Gateway Terminal (Private) Limited (KGTL).
• First Voyage: The inaugural vessel arrived at KGTL on the evening of March 11th. [ProPakistani]
• Connectivity: Seamless connectivity to regional and international shipping networks via the UAE’s logistics infrastructure.
• Infrastructure: Efficient transfer of containers through integrated road and rail corridors across the UAE.

Benefits for Pakistani Trade

The new feeder link supports supply chain continuity through KGTL and ensures Pakistan’s trade maintains dependable access to international markets. Cargo routed through Fujairah and Khor Fakkan will benefit from the UAE’s advanced logistics infrastructure. The service is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s supply chain and facilitate smoother cargo movement [The Tribune].

Statements from Key Officials

“The commencement of this feeder service reflects KGTL’s continued commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s maritime connectivity and supporting the country’s trading community,” said Khurram Aziz Khan, Chief Executive Officer of KGTL [ProPakistani].

Rear Admiral (Retd) Shahid Ahmed, Chairman of Karachi Port Trust, welcomed the strengthened maritime links between Pakistan and the UAE, noting that it supports Pakistan’s growing trade requirements [UrduPoint].

Economic Impact

Minister Chaudhry emphasized that Pakistan’s economy relies heavily on maritime trade, and stronger connectivity with regional transshipment hubs provides additional resilience for exporters, importers, and supply chains.