Pakistan Plans Major Revamp of Port Qasim to Deliver Half of $100 Billion Revenue Target

Port Qasim is set for one of the biggest upgrades in its history as the government targets the port to contribute half of Pakistan’s $100 billion revenue goal, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said on Monday. He noted that Port Qasim’s expansion will cement its role as a major industrial and trade hub in the region. Port Qasim was recently ranked as the world’s ninth most improved container port, which the minister called a strong endorsement of the ongoing digital and operational reforms. He said its performance score improved sharply thanks to faster cargo handling and modern technology adoption. The minister outlined a wide-ranging upgrade plan that includes new multipurpose and container terminals, a dedicated Special Economic Zone, and greener port operations. He said Pakistan’s first Sea-to-Steel Green Maritime Industrial Corridor will be built around the port to revive Pakistan Steel Mills and reduce imports of industrial materials. He explained that port operations will be linked directly to steel production through an Integrated Maritime Industrial Complex. Ship recycling and processing of iron ore and coal will form part of a continuous industrial value chain that generates jobs and expands domestic output. Junaid Chaudhry said the government will invest in upgraded road, rail, and communications links to cut logistics costs and boost trade competitiveness. Energy facilities within the port, including LNG terminals and power plants, will also support industrial expansion. He said the objective is to turn Port Qasim into a full maritime-industrial ecosystem that drives long-term economic growth rather than serving only as a cargo terminal. The minister added that trade corridor expansion, modern infrastructure, and targeted investment will remain central to Pakistan’s economic revival strategy.