China, UAE, Qatar and Türkiye to Invest $2B in Pakistan's Port Qasim

Introduction

Pakistan is moving ahead with major projects to upgrade Port Qasim, with around $2 billion in new investment expected from China, Qatar, Türkiye and the UAE. The funding is part of a 30-year master plan aimed at expanding port infrastructure, improving logistics and supporting industrial growth.

$2 Billion Investment to Upgrade Port Qasim

The planned investment will be used to develop port infrastructure, new terminals and industrial facilities at Port Qasim.

According to officials, several shipping and logistics projects are already underway, with more expected to be completed this year and over the next two years. The long-term plan is to strengthen Port Qasim's role in Pakistan's trade and export sector.

$250 Million Dredging Project Starts

The first phase of a $250 million dredging project has officially begun.

At present, Port Qasim can accommodate ships with a 13.5-metre draft. Under the development plan, the channel depth will increase to 15 metres by 2028 and later reach 18 metres, allowing larger cargo vessels to berth and improving the port's handling capacity.

Reko Diq Mining Company to Invest $150 Million

The Reko Diq Mining Company will invest $150 million at Port Qasim.

A dedicated railway system is also being developed to transport minerals from the Reko Diq mine to the port. Once the required infrastructure is completed, mineral exports are expected to move through Port Qasim by 2028.

New Railway Link Between Pipri and Port Qasim

Construction is underway on a new railway line between Pipri and Port Qasim under the ML-1 project.

The railway will support the transportation of Reko Diq minerals and is also expected to be used for future Thar coal exports. The overall railway project covers around 13.5 kilometres.

Pipri Logistics Park to Improve Cargo Movement

A railway freight container and multi-logistics park is being developed at Pipri in partnership with the National Logistics Corporation (NLC) and DP World.

The project is valued at approximately Rs2.46 billion and will be capable of handling around 260 containers and trucks at the same time, helping improve cargo movement between rail and road.

Project Expected to Reduce Traffic on Karachi Roads

The new logistics park is expected to reduce the movement of 250 to 400 freight containers each day on Karachi's roads.

Officials say the project will ease pressure on Shahrah-e-Faisal, Shahrah-e-Bhutto, Malir Expressway and the Northern Bypass by shifting more cargo transportation to the railway network.

Integrated Sea, Rail and Road Transport Network Planned

Authorities are working to connect sea, rail and road transport into a single logistics network.

The plan aims to make cargo movement faster, more efficient and more cost-effective. Future plans also include connecting Port Qasim, Karachi Port and Gwadar Port through an integrated transport system.

Port Qasim Continues to Expand

Port Qasim has grown from one berth in 1980 to 18 berths today.

The port currently handles LNG, LPG and petroleum products, while additional berths and terminals are under construction. It has also been granted Special Economic Zone (SEZ) status to encourage industries that import raw materials and export finished products.

Source: This report is based on information published by The Express Tribune regarding the $2 billion development plan, dredging work and logistics projects at Port Qasim.