Maritime Minister freezes KPT tariff hike, trade sector gets Rs500m relief

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 18th Jun, 2026) Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry on Thursday announced the freezing of a proposed 5 percent increase in Karachi Port Trust (KPT) tariffs for fiscal year 2026-27, a move to provide substantial relief to the business community and supporting trade and economic activity.

The minister said the decision is expected to benefit importers, exporters and consumers by more than Rs500 million, reducing the financial burden on trade and economic activity.

“This measure is fully aligned with the federal government’s policy of facilitating the business community, promoting trade and exports, and supporting sustainable economic growth,” Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said.

He noted that ports serve as the backbone of trade infrastructure and that any increase in port charges directly raises the cost of doing business.

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By freezing the tariff adjustment, the government aims to contain logistics costs and enhance the competitiveness of Pakistani products in international markets.

The minister said the decision reflects the prime minister’s vision for strengthening the blue economy and creating a business-friendly environment that encourages investment, trade expansion and economic development.

Junaid Anwar Chaudhry expressed confidence that the tariff freeze would help maintain the competitiveness of exports, ease operational costs for importers, and contribute to higher trade volumes through Pakistan’s ports.

He added that the government remains committed to undertaking practical measures that support economic stability, facilitate commerce and provide relief to the business community amid ongoing economic challenges.