CARACHI – Pakistan has reinstated a weekly direct shipping service from Karachi to seven European ports, Maritime Affairs Minister Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced on Thursday, a step projected to enhance access to a key export market for the nation’s textile producers and other enterprises.
This move coincides with Pakistan’s broader effort to bolster export volumes and refine trade logistics in the face of escalating shipping costs and global route disruptions. By establishing direct maritime links, exporters can cut reliance on transshipment via intermediary ports, thereby enhancing delivery timelines and shipment reliability for European customers.
“MSC has resumed its premium I‑Pak service, reinstating weekly shipping routes between Karachi Gateway Terminal and the seven European ports,” Chaudhry said in a ministry statement, referring to Mediterranean Shipping Company, the Switzerland‑based container carrier and one of the world’s largest shipping operators.
The minister hailed the restoration of direct European shipping links as a crucial boost for Pakistan’s export sector, especially textile manufacturers that depend on reliable schedules to fulfill overseas orders.
He commended Karachi Port Trust (KPT) and the management of Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited (KGTL) for their role in making the resumption possible.
KPT Chairman Rear Admiral (r) Shahid Ahmed noted that work is ongoing to enhance the efficiency of Pakistan’s maritime logistics network and strengthen connectivity between Karachi and major European markets.
The development is significant as the European Union remains one of Pakistan’s top export destinations, representing roughly 29 % of the country’s total exports in 2025, according to trade data cited by the Pakistan Business Council.
Textiles and apparel constitute about three‑quarters of Pakistan’s EU exports, underscoring the importance of dependable shipping links for an industry that relies on timely delivery to global retailers.
Pakistan also enjoys benefits from the EU’s Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+), which permits a broad array of Pakistani products, including textiles and garments, to enter European markets duty‑free or with reduced tariffs.
While the preferential arrangement has helped Pakistan grow its European market share, exporters still confront challenges such as high production costs, elevated energy prices, and logistical constraints.
Pakistan is pursuing port modernization and enhanced maritime connectivity as part of wider initiatives to boost exports, attract investment, and solidify its standing in regional and global trade.
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