Temporary cargo facility set up at Port Qasim

Pakistan’s strategic importance has risen following war and emergency conditions in Gulf countries, with temporary arrangements made for international cargo handling.

In view of the situation, special measures have been introduced to hold international cargo on an interim basis, officials said.

According to the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), an area spanning 16.9 acres has been allocated for international trans-shipment cargo, where stranded containers and goods can be stored securely at Port Qasim in Karachi.

A briefing noted that several vessels have halted operations due to lack of insurance coverage, while a global increase in oil, goods and shipping costs has also disrupted the supply chain.

The FBR stated that the step has been taken under Section 78 of the Customs Act, 1969, in order to maintain continuity in global trade during the emergency.