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Chairman's Message

Vice Admiral Muhammad Shafi, HI (M)

Ports & Shipping sector constitutes backbone of a country’s communication infrastructure. The ports today are compelled to adopt futuristic approach to cope with increasing demands for upgrading port facilities while maintaining competitive tariff. Our country’s reliance on the Ports & Shipping sector for trade and commerce demands a safe and secure maritime environment which is critical to the country’s economic well-being. As the first industrial and commercial port of Pakistan, Port Qasim combines functions of an international seaport and a potent venue for investment. With over 12000 acres of land in close proximity to the waterfront, Port Qasim plays a crucial role in the economic development of the country.

 

We, at Port Qasim, strive to provide time-efficient and cost-effective port facilities to customers and stakeholders. Today, the port caters for more than 38% of the seaborne trade of the country. I feel pleased to declare that average annual growth in cargo handling over a period of last five years, has been more than 5%. It is indeed a great source of satisfaction that Pakistan’s maritime trade has touched new heights. During 2009-10, the maritime trade touched a record volume of around 67 million tonnes depicting a growth of more than 5% over corresponding figures of financial year 2008-09. This increase also calls for capacity building and infrastructure development to play an important role in expansion of country’s economy. PQA is also pursuing a large number of projects for capacity enhancement. With completion  of these projects in 2011/2012, the port’s handling capacity shall be increased from 40 million tonnes to 83 million tonnes. Furthermore, to accommodate larger vessels and to benefit from scales of economy, PQA plans deepening of navigation channel at a cost of US$ 150 million.
As the new Chairman, my strategy would be:
·         Increased operational capability of Port Qasim Authority
·         Acquisition of powerful tugs and pilot boats
·         Capacity building
·         Deepening of Navigation Channel to allow berthing of deeper draught vessels
·         Upgrading port facilities
·         Provision of infrastructure facilities in all industrial zones
·         Increased port efficiency to reduce cost of doing business in line with National Trade Corridor objectives
 
I am sure that the present Government will provide assured incentives to investors and attract further investments in port’s trade, infrastructure and industrial development. I take this opportunity to urge potential investors to strive for achievement of national objective for a stronger economy. I also seek from Ports & Shipping Sector/Industrialist/Stakeholders their valuable suggestions for my guidance. 

 

 

Vice Admiral Muhammad Shafi, HI (M)
Chairman, Port Qasim Authority