Pakistan Customs has announced a series of decisive measures to significantly improve port operations and alleviate recent congestion at the Karachi International Container Terminal (KICT) and the South Asia Pakistan Terminal (SAPT).

According to a press release, the current pressure on both terminals is attributed to a sharp increase in trade activity throughout July 2026, driven by improved global economic conditions and the easing of security tensions in the Persian Gulf.

It said the surge in maritime activity is evident in the latest figures. Combined vessel calls at SAPT and KICT rose to 56 vessels between July 1 and July 25, 2026, compared to 49 vessels during the same period last year—a 14.3% increase. Furthermore, container throughput at SAPT alone increased by 12.0%, reaching 52,314 TEUs.

To manage this increased volume, Pakistan Customs has ramped up its clearance operations. Examinations completed in July 2026 reached 4,298, up from 4,007 in 2025. Notably, fresh codes marked for examination surged by 19.9%, reflecting higher clearance volumes and a significant increase in the number of containers undergoing inspection.

Meanwhile, a senior official said Pakistan Customs is fully committed to facilitating trade while maintaining robust regulatory oversight. We have deployed optimal examiner staffing at all ports and have consistently operated on Sundays to ensure the timely clearance of cargo. The current congestion is being monitored daily, and we are coordinating closely with trade representatives and terminal management to resolve the situation by the end of this week.

In a historic move under the Maritime Task Force, Customs has implemented several reforms to streamline port operations. More than 2,000 long-stuck containers have been shifted to off-docks, freeing up valuable terminal space. Additionally, the installation of scanners at all ports now allows for Non-Intrusive Inspections, significantly speeding up clearance times and reducing business costs. These measures, combined with Faceless Assessment and Examination, have dramatically reduced clearance times and enhanced transparency.

The official further said these reforms mark a new era for Pakistan’s maritime sector. Our goal is to ensure efficient, transparent, and responsive port operations to support the national economy and cement Pakistan’s position as a key trade hub in the region.

Pakistan Customs will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to maintain these high standards and ensure seamless trade facilitation for the benefit of the nation. The department is also closely watching the renewed situation in the strait of Hormuz to cater to emerging exigencies.