KARACHI: Karachi’s Port Qasim has been ranked 9th in the World Bank’s Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) for the period 2020-2024, marking a significant improvement in port performance.
The port’s high ranking reflects a 35.2-point leap in performance between 2020 and 2024, according to the latest CPPI report, prepared in collaboration with S&P Global Market Intelligence.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, praised the World Bank’s recognition of Port Qasim as the ninth most improved port worldwide, calling the achievement a testament to the government’s ongoing reforms and modernisation efforts.
In a statement, Junaid described the recognition as a “matter of national pride,” attributing it to continued efforts to modernise port operations, adopt global best practices, and enhance efficiency.
The minister highlighted that the port’s rise in the global rankings underscored Pakistan’s commitment to transforming its maritime facilities into competitive regional hubs.
He also credited the role of private operators, particularly DP World’s Qasim International Container Terminal (QICT), for maintaining operations at international standards. Additionally, he announced that the Ministry of Maritime Affairs had cleared a long-awaited dredging project to accommodate larger vessels and boost the port’s trade handling capacity.
Port Qasim Authority Chairman Rear Admiral (Retd) Moazzam Ilyas echoed the minister’s comments, attributing the success to the dedication of the port’s workforce. He emphasized the continued investment in innovation, digitalization, and infrastructure to elevate the port’s global standing.
Junaid noted that this recognition aligns with Pakistan’s broader goal of positioning itself as a strategic logistics corridor linking the Middle East, Central Asia, China, and beyond. With Karachi Port and Gwadar Port also undergoing modernisation, the rise of Port Qasim strengthens Pakistan’s credentials as a regional shipping hub.
The minister further pointed out that improved port performance would attract foreign investment in maritime and logistics industries, offering more reliable and cost-efficient shipping options for exporters and importers. Looking ahead, he stated that the government’s next focus would be integrating ports with inland transport networks, expanding digital systems, and ensuring environmental sustainability in maritime operations.
“This achievement is only a beginning,” Junaid concluded. “Our aim is to transform Pakistan’s maritime gateways into drivers of economic growth, regional integration, and prosperity.”
