KPT Chief seeks proposals to cut cargo delays, logistics cost

KARACHI (Staff Report): Chairman Karachi Port Trust (KPT), Rear Admiral (R) Shahid Ahmed, has sought workable proposals from stakeholders to reduce cargo clearance delays and cut logistics costs.

Chairman KPT held a consultative meeting with delegations of Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers (NVOCCs) including Mr. M Rajpar, Capt Javed Iqbal, Chairman Pakistan Ship Agents Association, governing bodies of All Pakistan Customs Agents Association and Karachi Customs Agents Association, terminal operators and other concerned parties.

The meeting aimed at reducing cargo dwell time at the port, lowering logistics costs and utilizing the potential of Karachi Port as a regional transshipment hub.

Representatives of NVOCCs appreciated the performance of KPT and its recent key milestones. They thanked Chairman KPT for providing a rare opportunity to supply chain partners to present their issues and concerns.

The meeting discussed inter-terminal transfer of containers, application of Risk Management System for export containers at gate-in stage, advance filing of cargo manifest by shipping lines, declaration on advance arrival of goods and possibilities of TIR system.

Chairman KPT emphasized on converting consultation into practical steps and asked stakeholders to submit actionable proposals to expedite cargo clearance, reduce costs and strengthen the competitive position of Karachi Port.