KARACHI: Pakistan launched standardized bunkering operations on Tuesday at Karachi Port, the nation’s largest, bringing its ship-fueling services in line with global operational and safety standards for the first time.
In an official statement, the country’s Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced the initiative. He said the move is essential for improving Pakistan’s competitive standing in the regional shipping market.
Bunkering is the fueling of ships for propulsion and onboard use.
The minister said the measure was implemented under the prime minister’s instructions to accelerate port service modernization and broadly upgrade Pakistan’s maritime infrastructure.
The adoption of standardized procedures is widely recognized by groups like the International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) as critical for operational transparency and safety in marine fuel supply worldwide.
The maritime minister stated that the regulated bunkering removes a long-standing service gap, enabling Karachi Port to compete more effectively with established regional fueling hubs. He said that compliance with international standards covering fuel quality, safety procedures, and documentation was paramount for building confidence among shipowners.
He hopes the availability of safe, reliable, and efficiently managed facilities to draw more international shipping lines to Karachi, targeting operators demanding predictable standards and streamlined port calls.
Economic impact
“Increased vessel traffic will translate directly into higher foreign-exchange earnings,” he said. Revenue will be generated through port fees, marine services, and ancillary commercial activity such as repairs and logistics.
The minister stated that expanded operations are also projected to stimulate employment across the maritime economy. The new service will also help improve Pakistan's international visibility by indicating a commitment to modern, globally competitive port management.
Future plans
The first phase of operations will begin through collaboration with one of the world’s leading energy trading houses. The partner will conduct bunkering at Karachi Port using internationally certified practices.
The venture is expected to expand as domestic refineries supply refined fuel that meets global specifications, a development the maritime minister described as a direct benefit to the national exchequer.
Karachi Port Trust confirmed it had assessed existing practices, reviewed global procedures, and drafted new documentation to bring the service online. The minister said the milestone reinforces KPT’s ambition to operate as a leading regional hub and signals the government’s intent to continue expanding port capabilities against international benchmarks.
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