PM Orders Port Reforms to Cut Cargo Delays and Boost Exports

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed port authorities to significantly reduce cargo dwell time and remove unnecessary laboratory testing to improve trade efficiency. Chairing a high-level meeting on port development, he said delays at ports are harming businesses and slowing economic growth. The prime minister ordered reductions in port charges, faster dredging and expansion—particularly at Karachi ports—to accommodate larger vessels, and upgrades to rail connectivity for quicker inland cargo movement. He also instructed the establishment of on-site testing laboratories within ports and the abolition of redundant tests. To address abandoned cargo, the PM ordered a transparent auction system with dedicated yards and announced the launch of an e-bidding platform. Officials said work on the national ports master plan and the port community system is progressing.