Danish shipping giant Maersk has announced plans to invest $2 billion in Pakistan’s port and transport infrastructure over the next two years, with support from the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC). The investment will focus on enhancing port development, terminals, dredging, transshipment, and road construction across the country.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, is scheduled to visit Denmark this month to formalize the partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Maersk Shipping Company and Karachi Port Trust.
In a recent announcement, Minister Sheikh highlighted the elimination of sales tax on processing plants, fisheries seeds, and feed in the maritime sector as part of the federal budget. The government also plans to allocate land for building processing plants to boost marine exports.
Sheikh emphasized Karachi’s strategic potential for increasing exports, noting that the Ministry of Maritime Affairs is committed to creating a business-friendly environment. He urged the business community to actively participate in this developmental effort.
The SIFC initiative is expected to drive significant progress in Pakistan’s maritime and transport sectors. The government views the stability and security of Pakistan as essential for fostering growth and attracting investment in these critical areas, ultimately contributing to the nation’s economic development.