KARACHI: Karachi Port is seeing increased transshipment activity and new feeder links to Gulf logistics hubs as shipping lines adjust regional routes amid tensions linked to the war involving Iran, port authorities said on Thursday.

Two vessels carrying transshipment cargo docked simultaneously at the port, according to a statement, highlighting its growing role in redistributing containers across Middle Eastern shipping routes.

The development comes as the conflict in the Middle East raises concerns about disruptions to critical energy and trade corridors.

The war has already pushed up oil and gas prices and heightened risks for shipping across Gulf waters, prompting logistics companies to reassess routes and rely more heavily on regional hubs outside potential conflict zones.

“The simultaneous handling of transshipment containers at Karachi Port highlights the port’s strong operational capacity, efficient port infrastructure, and strategic geographic advantage in supporting regional maritime logistics, container shipping operations, and uninterrupted international trade during ongoing disruptions in global shipping routes,” the official statement said.

“As transshipment cargo volumes continue to increase, Karachi Port is steadily strengthening its reputation as a key maritime logistics hub in South Asia and the Middle East regions, further reinforcing Pakistan’s role in international shipping and maritime connectivity,” it added.

FEEDER SERVICE

Separately, Karachi Gateway Terminal (Private) Limited (KGTL) said a dedicated feeder service linking Karachi with the UAE ports of Fujairah and Khor Fakkan has begun operations, strengthening connectivity between Pakistan and key Gulf transshipment hubs.

The inaugural voyage of the service arrived at the terminal on the evening of March 11, marking the start of regular operations aimed at maintaining reliable links between Pakistani exporters and global shipping networks.

“The commencement of this feeder service reflects KGTL’s continued commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s maritime connectivity and supporting the country’s trading community,” Khurram Aziz Khan, KGTL chief executive officer, said in a statement.

“By linking Karachi directly with major UAE transshipment hubs, this service provides importers and exporters with reliable access to global shipping networks while reinforcing the role of Karachi Gateway Terminal as a key gateway for international trade,” he added.

Chairman of the Karachi Port Trust Rear Admiral (r) Shahid Ahmed said stronger links with regional hubs would help facilitate smoother cargo movement.

“The introduction of this feeder service further enhances Karachi Port’s connectivity with key regional hubs and supports Pakistan’s growing trade requirements,” he said.

“Strengthening maritime links with the UAE will help facilitate smoother cargo movement while providing greater flexibility for the country’s trading community.”