Pakistan's new route is set to transform regional trade dynamics by cutting transit times from 30 days via sea to just 10 days to transport cargo from China to UAE.

This historic service by Pakistan's National Logistics Corporation was inaugurated at the Sost Dry Port in Gilgit-Baltistan last week. 

The multimodal cargo transport service, under the Transports Internationaux Routiers (TIR) system, connects China to the United Arab Emirates via Khunjerab Pass.

The inaugural shipment of electronic goods departed from Kashgar, China, and reached the NLC Dry Port in Sost, Gilgit-Baltistan.

Pakistan's strategic location in the region helps bridge China and Gulf countries and significantly reduces logistics costs and transit durations.

NLC trucks are completing their journey from Kashgar to Karachi in just eight days with containers shipped onward to Dubai in two days by sea.

This milestone showcases Pakistan's growing role as a regional trade hub while further operationalizing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.

It is particular to mention that the Khunjerab Pass, situated at an elevation of over 4,600 metres, has been central to this initiative, and is now functioning as a year-round gateway for trade.

Furthermore, this trade route has also witnessed record revenue of collection of 34.87 million dollars at the Sost Dry Port during the first half of the current fiscal year, compared to 23.4 million dollars in the same period last year.

The TIR system, recognized globally for its efficiency, allows for cargo to travel through multiple borders with minimal customs interference. This innovation positions Pakistan as a pivotal logistics hub connecting Asia with global markets.

Experts opine that the success of this initiative will lead to increased trade volumes through the Khunjerab Pass and beyond. With its multimodal capabilities, Pakistan aims to expand its connectivity to Central Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe, solidifying its role in global commerce.