Port Qasim to get 400-acre industrial estate

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has announced the establishment of a modern small industrial estate at Port Qasim spanning approximately 400 acres, according to a statement issued on Thursday. Speaking during his visit to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), the minister said the development strategy would prioritise infrastructure readiness before plot allocation. "Unlike conventional practices where investors are shown undeveloped land, this project will first deliver fully developed infrastructure, including main boulevards, landscaping and essential utilities," he said. Chaudhry also stated that port charges have been reduced by up to 60% to attract international shipping lines. The minister further announced that the Port Qasim Authority board has approved a development budget of Rs35 billion for the Eastern Zone, where infrastructure development will commence shortly. Chairman KPT Rear Admiral Shahid Ahmed said Karachi Port has already serviced over 100 vessels in the bunkering industry, which is expected to generate business worth billions of rupees within the next two years.