Govt to Launch New Ferry Service to Gulf Countries At Gwadar Port

The Ministry of Maritime Affairs on Tuesday announced a strategic initiative to expand the operational capacity of Gwadar Port through the addition of new shipping lines and the launch of a ferry service connecting Pakistan with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The plan was disclosed during a high-level meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry in Islamabad. The minister directed all relevant departments to accelerate efforts to integrate Gwadar into international maritime networks. The introduction of additional shipping lines is aimed at increasing goods movement, facilitating transit trade with Central Asia and the Middle East, and reducing the load on existing Pakistani ports. The government also plans to launch a ferry service from Gwadar to GCC countries, providing a direct and cost-effective maritime link for passengers and cargo. The service is expected to benefit expatriate communities, boost tourism, and support cross-border trade. Consultations are underway with shipping companies, port operators, and maritime authorities to finalise the technical, legal, and operational frameworks required for the new services.