Pakistan is set to expand its national shipping fleet as part of a strategic effort to reduce a $4 billion annual foreign exchange loss incurred by relying on international shipping services. During a high-level meeting on July 18, 2025, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif instructed the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) to acquire additional vessels—including through leasing options—and restructure its operations along corporate lines to enhance efficiency and competitiveness.
Currently, the PNSC operates a fleet of just 10 vessels with a combined capacity of 724,643 tons, which is insufficient to handle Pakistan’s growing maritime trade. Over 90% of the country’s imports and exports depend on sea transport, making this expansion crucial for sustaining economic growth and supply chain stability.
The government’s broader aim is to bolster Pakistan’s maritime sector, improve regional trade connectivity, and preserve foreign exchange reserves. Prime Minister Sharif emphasized the importance of attracting private investment to modernize the shipping industry and generate employment for Pakistani seafarers.
Public reaction on X (formerly Twitter) has been largely positive, with many users linking this move to potential benefits from transnational projects such as the Pakistan-Afghanistan-Uzbekistan railway, which could further enhance transit trade through Pakistani ports.
A detailed business plan is expected within the coming weeks, outlining PNSC’s restructuring strategy in alignment with global maritime standards. This development marks a significant step in positioning Pakistan as a more self-reliant and influential player in regional and global shipping networks.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 18th, 2025
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