Pakistan’s maritime sector has achieved a major milestone with the successful completion of dredging operations at Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited (KGTL), a development expected to transform cargo handling capabilities and strengthen the country’s position in regional and global trade.
The project significantly increases navigational depth at Karachi Port, enabling larger vessels to access key berths and improving overall shipping efficiency. Industry experts view the upgrade as a strategic step toward reducing logistics costs, enhancing export competitiveness, and supporting long-term economic growth.
Under the completed works, the Upper and Lower Channels at Karachi Port have been deepened to minus 14 meters, while a 450-meter turning circle has also been established. At East Wharf, berths 6 to 17 now offer a depth of 15.5 meters, benefiting both the container terminal operated by Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited and the multipurpose terminal operated by Karachi Gateway Terminal Multipurpose Limited (KGTML).
The dredging project forms part of a broader investment strategy led by AD Ports Group through its international operating arm, Noatum Ports. The company is currently implementing investments exceeding $200 million across its Karachi terminal operations under agreements with the Karachi Port Trust.
The enhanced depth allows KGTL to accommodate significantly larger container vessels than before. The terminal can now handle ships measuring up to 350 meters in length with a draft of 15.5 meters, compared to the previous capacity of approximately 305 meters in length and 13 meters draft.
This increase in capacity is expected to improve berth utilization, strengthen operational flexibility, and offer greater reliability to international shipping lines calling at Karachi Port. The result could be faster cargo movement and improved connectivity with major trade routes across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and beyond.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry described the achievement as a reflection of Pakistan’s commitment to modernizing its port infrastructure and expanding its role in global commerce. He noted that the upgraded facilities would enable Karachi Port to accommodate vessels up to 350 meters in length and a gross registered tonnage of 100,000.
Beyond container operations, the project also delivers substantial benefits for Pakistan’s bulk cargo sector. The deeper draft at KGTML allows the terminal to handle larger post-panamax vessels carrying around 120,000 metric tons, double the capacity of the handy-max vessels previously serviced.
This capability is expected to generate significant savings for exporters by lowering freight costs and improving shipping efficiency. Industry estimates suggest the development could contribute to foreign exchange savings of approximately $130 million while supporting larger export volumes.
The modernization effort extends beyond dredging. Construction work is already underway to expand KGTL’s container terminal capacity from 750,000 TEUs to 1 million TEUs annually. Additional investments in advanced ship-to-shore and yard cranes are also planned to further enhance terminal performance.
At KGTML, AD Ports Group is developing Pakistan’s first dedicated bulk export facility. The project includes new warehouses, automated conveying systems, enclosed storage infrastructure, and environmentally responsible handling solutions designed to improve efficiency and reduce dust emissions.
The terminal’s first development phase is expected to support bulk cargo exports of up to 8 million tonnes annually. The project will play a crucial role in facilitating exports of commodities such as clinker and other bulk products that rely heavily on efficient port infrastructure.
A separate long-term agreement between Karachi Gateway Terminal Multipurpose Limited and Louis Dreyfus Company Pakistan will also support the development of silos and modern bulk storage facilities. These investments are expected to strengthen Pakistan’s agricultural commodity exports and improve agri-bulk logistics capabilities.
The completion of dredging at KGTL marks more than just an infrastructure upgrade. It represents a major advancement for Pakistan’s trade ecosystem, creating opportunities for lower shipping costs, stronger supply chain performance, and greater competitiveness in international markets.
As global shipping increasingly favors ports capable of handling larger vessels efficiently, Karachi Port’s upgraded facilities position Pakistan to attract additional trade volumes and investment. The project also highlights growing international confidence in the country’s maritime sector and long-term economic potential.
With deeper channels, expanded berths, modern equipment, and ongoing investment commitments, Karachi Port is preparing for a new phase of growth. The KGTL dredging project stands as a landmark achievement that will help Pakistan move cargo more efficiently, support exporters and importers, and strengthen the nation’s role in global trade for years to come.
