ISLAMABAD: Direct shipping connectivity between Karachi and major European ports has been restored after Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) reinstated its PREMIUM IPAK service, a move expected to ease transit delays and freight pressures faced by Pakistani exporters.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said on October 8 that the weekly service would call at Karachi Gateway Terminal International (KGTI), linking Karachi with key European destinations through Colombo, Felixstowe, Rotterdam, Hamburg, Bremerhaven, Antwerp, Le Havre and London Gateway.
The restored route comes after exporters, particularly from the textile sector, raised concerns over longer shipping journeys and higher logistics costs caused by disruptions to established international trade routes, including those linked to the Red Sea situation.
Exporters Get Direct Access to European Markets
Chaudhry said the return of a dedicated Europe service was an important development for export-oriented industries that had been struggling with increased delivery times and higher transportation costs.
He said exporters had recently informed the government that altered shipping routes were increasing freight expenses and extending delivery schedules for consignments bound for European and US markets.
According to the minister, the additional costs and delays had affected the competitiveness of Pakistani exporters in international markets.
The government, he said, was engaging with shipping lines and other stakeholders to improve maritime connectivity and reduce logistical bottlenecks.
MSC Restores Weekly Karachi Call
Under the reinstated PREMIUM IPAK service, MSC will make a weekly call at Karachi, providing exporters with a more predictable route to major European ports.
Chaudhry said reliable shipping connections were essential for Pakistan’s trade sector and could help businesses plan shipments more effectively.
He welcomed MSC’s decision, saying the service would give exporters more options for moving goods and improve connectivity with important European destinations.
However, he cautioned that the restored route did not eliminate the broader risks affecting global shipping networks.
International shipping continues to face disruptions in key trade corridors, creating uncertainty over freight costs, vessel schedules and delivery timelines.
Government Focuses on Maritime Trade Efficiency
The maritime affairs minister said the government would continue working with shipping companies and exporters to address connectivity issues and strengthen Pakistan’s position in international trade.
He added that improving port operations, shipping services and the wider maritime logistics system remained a government priority.
Chaudhry also praised Karachi Port Trust Chairman Rear Admiral (retd) Shahid Ahmed and the management of Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited for their role in restoring the direct shipping connection.
Shahid Ahmed said efforts were continuing to improve the efficiency of Pakistan’s maritime logistics system.
He said the renewed service would strengthen Karachi’s access to key European markets and facilitate exporters seeking more reliable shipping options.