KARACHI: The Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) has expanded its fleet by adding two new Aframax tankers, increasing the total number of ships from 10 to 12.
The Ministry of Maritime Affairs has also set an ambitious target to expand the fleet to 20 ships by the end of this year, marking a significant step in strengthening the national shipping capacity.
Every year, Pakistan pays around $4.6 billion to foreign shipping companies in freight charges. With the addition of these new vessels, the country aims to reduce dependency on international shipping firms and handle rising energy imports more effectively. This move is expected to save valuable foreign exchange and strengthen national economic resilience.
During a detailed briefing , Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry was informed about the strategic role of the new tankers. He highlighted that Aframax tankers will play an essential role in transporting crude oil and petroleum products, directly supporting Pakistan’s growing energy demands. The expansion of the national fleet, he added, is a critical step toward ensuring long-term energy security.
Furthermore, officials emphasized that the national fleet expansion will not only reduce foreign reliance but also create opportunities for new domestic and international business ventures.
The government aims to use this expansion as a platform to make PNSC more competitive in global shipping markets. By actively seeking new opportunities, PNSC is expected to position itself as a stronger player in international trade.
