The federal government has decided to accelerate work on a one-door facilitation centre for port-related businesses in Karachi, aiming to bring key government services under one roof and make maritime trade easier for businesses.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry issued the directions during a weekly review meeting on October 3, where officials discussed ongoing maritime projects and policy initiatives.
One-Window Facility for Port Businesses
The proposed centre is intended to provide port-related businesses with easier access to government services through a single platform.
The minister directed officials to speed up work on the facility, saying services linked to port trade should be made available under one roof in line with the government’s trade-facilitation objectives.
The initiative is expected to simplify interactions between businesses and relevant government departments involved in maritime trade.
Ship and Fishing Vessel Registration Under Review
The meeting also reviewed proposals aimed at simplifying the registration process for ships and fishing vessels.
Officials discussed measures concerning the fisheries sector, including proposed tax incentives for fisheries exporters. The government also reviewed progress on the National Maritime Policy and National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy.
Focus on Pakistan’s Blue Economy
Several projects linked to Pakistan’s maritime sector were also discussed during the meeting.
These included the Shipping and Transhipment Policy, development projects at Port Qasim, the Sea-to-Steel Project and the proposed Integrated Maritime Industrial Complex.
Officials also briefed the minister on the rehabilitation of the Manora Workshop of Karachi Port Trust (KPT) and development projects at Gwadar Port.
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Maritime Education and Business Facilitation
The meeting also considered the Maritime Educational Endowment Fund, which is aimed at supporting maritime education and human-resource development.
The minister instructed officials to maintain progress on ongoing projects, with particular attention to initiatives designed to improve the ease of doing business in Pakistan’s maritime sector.
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