A thorough reform programme aimed at restoring Pakistan’s flagging maritime sector has been authorised by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. With the goal of improving marine operations and fostering growth, the Pakistan Marine and Seaport Authority (PMSPA) was established, which is at the heart of these improvements.
The implementation will be overseen by a high-level committee that includes top officials from important departments and is directed by the defence minister. The group has scheduled meetings every two weeks to check in on the execution and discuss the progress.
Important parts of the programme include creating uniform port charges across the country, updating the National Ports Master Plan, and reorganising the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation. Efforts will also be made to address water-based agriculture and related businesses, digitise port operations, and build additional terminals.
According to experts, Pakistan loses 500 billion rupees a year in this area due to factors such as underused port capacity, tax avoidance, and the abuse of institutions like the Afghan Transit Trade System. Every year, the nation loses Rs 112 billion due to tax cheating.
The reform initiative is both necessary and timely, according to economists. They claim that digital transformation, greater use of maritime resources, and better governance might make trade practices efficient and strengthen Pakistan’s economy.
