Karachi port sets 138-year record, as cargo handling surges

KPT also set a new record in container handling, crossing 2.65 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) during FY25–26

KARACHI: Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said on Sunday, June 28, that the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) has reached its highest annual cargo handling level in 138 years.

He said the port crossed its previous record of 54.685 million tones set in FY17–18, showing strong growth in maritime activity.

Officials said Pakistani ports, including KPT, have recently seen higher shipping activity as global trade routes shifted due to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. As a result, international shipping lines diverted more vessels to Karachi, which increased trans-shipment traffic.

KARACHI PORT TRUST SHATTERS 138-YEARS RECORD !

“A New Chapter in Pakistan’s Maritime History”

Karachi, 27 June 2026: Karachi Port Trust (KPT) has made history — surpassing its all-time cargo handling record of 5 crore 46 lakh 85 thousand tonnes, set in FY 2017–18, marking an… pic.twitter.com/0VSHxfRHLj

— Karachi Port Trust Official (@official_kpt) June 28, 2026

Cargo handling includes the loading, unloading, movement, and storage of goods between ships, trucks, trains, and storage areas inside the port. According to KPT data, last year handling stood at 53.951 million tones.

Moreover, the minister said better management, improved capacity, and ongoing reforms helped the port reach this milestone. He added that the achievement reflects progress in Pakistan maritime sector and stronger operational performance at the port.

In addition, he said the government continues to modernize ports, expand infrastructure, and improve logistics systems to support trade growth. He also highlighted efforts to strengthen Pakistan role as a regional trade and shipping hub.

Furthermore, KPT also set a new record in container handling, crossing 2.65 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) during FY25–26. Officials noted that the arrival of the first fully transshipment cargo vessel earlier this year marked a major step toward regional hub status.

The minister and KPT leadership praised staff and stakeholders for their teamwork and coordination, saying continued improvements will further increase efficiency and global competitiveness.