ISLAMABAD: In a decisive move to overhaul Pakistan’s maritime industry, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has endorsed a series of sweeping reforms as proposed by the Task Force on Revamping of Pakistan’s Maritime Sector. The approved recommendations span a wide range of operational, financial, and strategic areas, aimed at enhancing efficiency and competitiveness.
Key Decisions and Actions:
1. Establishment of Pakistan Maritime & Sea Port Authority (PMSPA): The creation of PMSPA has been approved, with Mr. Farough Nasim tasked to draft the relevant legislation. Monthly progress reports on the Act’s formulation are to be submitted to the Prime Minister.
2. Professional Appointments: The Prime Minister approved the appointment of professional CEOs for Karachi Port Trust (KPT), Port Qasim Authority (PQA), and Gwadar Port Authority (GPA) by January 30, 2025.
3. Operational Enhancements: Measures include the update of the National Ports Master Plan by a reputable national firm, standardization of port tariffs by February 1, 2024, and a directive to reduce dwell time at ports to 4-5 days.
4. Efficiency and Compliance: Initiatives to improve trans-shipment operations, ensure compliance with concession agreements, and the formulation of a national dredging plan were sanctioned.
5. Training and Development: The establishment of a Port Workers Training Institute, following the International Labour Office (ILO) guidelines, was approved to enhance the skill set of port workers.
6. Digitalization and Modernization: The rollout of the Pakistan Single Window (PSW) system and deployment of Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) scanners at port terminals are set to streamline operations.
7. Strategic Investments: Plans include the potential privatization or share off-loading of Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC), modernization of its fleet, and development of a new business model.
8. Shipbuilding and Recycling: Enhancements to shipbuilding capacities at Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works (KS&EW), including tax incentives for local shipbuilding projects, were approved. The ship recycling sector is to be given industrial status at the federal level, with a focus on implementing the Hong Kong Convention.
9. Fisheries and Aquaculture: A five-year fisheries development plan, cluster shrimp farming, and the establishment of hatcheries for lucrative fish species were endorsed to boost local aquaculture.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of implementing these measures swiftly to ensure Pakistan’s maritime sector becomes a significant contributor to the national economy. The Task Force will continue to provide oversight and ensure adherence to the timelines and responsibilities outlined in the briefing.