In a bid to deepen bilateral ties, more than 65 US-based companies participated in a webinar on Wednesday aimed at uncovering business prospects at Pakistan’s ports, namely Port Qasim and Karachi Port.

 

Organised under the ‘Gateways to Growth: South Asia Port Opportunities’ series, the session was reportedly a joint effort by the US Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration and the US Department of State, in partnership with Pakistan’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs. According to reports, the event has opened up fresh avenues for American commercial engagement in Pakistan’s port and maritime sectors.

 

Reports reveal that the webinar was designed as a strategic meeting ground facilitating direct conversations between US businesses and key figures from Pakistan’s port authorities and private port operators.

 

Key officials from the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Abu Dhabi Ports, Dubai Ports World and Port Qasim Authority, also participated. It merits a mention that Abu Dhabi Ports manages Karachi Gateway Terminal Ltd, while Dubai Ports World operates Qasim International Container Terminal. These entities, along with the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, laid out Pakistan’s trade priorities, infrastructure goals, and the broader regulatory framework.

 

Speaking during the session, US Consul General in Karachi Scott Urbom reportedly highlighted the strength of bilateral cooperation. The Consul General mentioned that investors from the US have already contributed significantly towards the development of the country. He also announced that the Port sector could serve as an area of economic collaboration, bringing about “great success” for all parties involved.

 

Moreover, he suggested that collaboration could unlock the port sector’s true capacity, create fresh openings for US-based firms, and support Pakistan’s economic progress.

 

As per reports, Director of ICT and Infrastructure Policy at the US International Development Finance Corporation, Ean Hudley, explained that this initiative gives US businesses valuable market insight and direct connections to local decision-makers, allowing US firms to tap into infrastructure ventures throughout South Asia.

 

The hybrid event reportedly outlined how US firms can play a vital role in accelerating trade movement by building new logistics channels between the two nations, aligning with Pakistan’s ongoing development plans for its ports.

 

In recent port-related developments, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs has outlined plans to increase the number of shipping lines operating to and from the port and has also announced the launch of a ferry service. The initiative is part of the federal government’s plan to elevate Gwadar Port’s position as a “major hub in the Arabian Sea”.

 

While the government attempts to boost Gwadar Port’s significance, investment inflows from the US into Port Qasim and Karachi Port could allow Pakistan to begin a regional trading hub.