Pakistan’s Port Qasim has secured the ninth spot in the World Bank’s Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) 2024 for improvements made between 2020 and 2024 — a major milestone for the country’s maritime sector.
The port recorded a 35.2-point leap in performance, placing it among the world’s top 20 most improved ports, according to the index compiled with S&P Global Market Intelligence.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry hailed the ranking as “a matter of national pride,” crediting ongoing reforms and modernisation initiatives. He said the government’s policies aimed to transform Pakistan’s ports into competitive regional hubs.
“Our continuous efforts to modernise operations, adopt global best practices, and enhance efficiency have paid off,” the minister said in a statement on Saturday. “We remain committed to strengthening the maritime sector and making it a key driver of national and regional trade.”
Chaudhry also acknowledged the role of private operators, particularly DP World’s Qasim International Container Terminal, in maintaining international standards. He announced that the long-delayed dredging project for Port Qasim’s channel had been cleared, paving the way for larger vessels to dock and increasing the port’s trade capacity.
Port Qasim Authority Chairman Rear Admiral (Retd) Moazzam Ilyas praised the workforce for their dedication, which he said had earned the port this recognition. He pledged further investment in digitalisation and infrastructure to strengthen the port’s global position.
Officials noted that the improved performance will not only benefit exporters and importers through faster, more cost-efficient services but also attract foreign investment into Pakistan’s logistics and shipping industries.
