New facility will ensure safe, environmentally compliant ship refueling, smooth maritime transport
ISLAMABAD:
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has announced the launch of standardised bunkering operations at Karachi Port for the first time in Pakistan’s history.
“The move brings Pakistan’s largest port in line with global maritime safety and operational standards, a step long viewed as essential for improving the country’s standing in the regional shipping market,” the minister said.
Bunkering is the fueling of ships for propulsion and onboard use, involving the storage, transfer and management of marine fuels like oil and gas. Proper bunkering ensures safe, efficient and environmentally compliant refueling, enabling smooth maritime transport and global shipping operations.
The initiative is launched on the instructions of the prime minister, who has called for accelerated modernisation of port services and a broader upgrade of Pakistan’s maritime infrastructure. Chaudhry said the introduction of regulated bunkering would remove a longstanding gap in Karachi Port’s service offering and enable it to compete more effectively with established bunkering hubs in the region and the wider area.
The minister emphasised that the availability of safe, reliable and efficiently managed bunkering facilities was expected to draw more international shipping lines to Karachi, particularly operators seeking streamlined port calls and predictable service standards.
He said that increased vessel traffic would translate into higher foreign exchange earnings through port fees, marine services and ancillary commercial activity such as repairs, supplies and maritime logistics. The expected increase in port operations is also projected to stimulate employment across multiple layers of the maritime economy.
Chaudhry added that the new service would enhance Pakistan’s visibility in the international maritime market by demonstrating the country’s commitment to modern, environmentally responsible and globally competitive port management.
Compliance with global standards covering fuel quality, safety procedures, documentation and transparency is essential for building confidence among shipowners and international trading companies.
