Pakistan’s cement industry may soon get a big boost as the government moves forward with plans to expand facilities at Port Qasim. Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said on Thursday that new projects are being lined up to make the port more efficient and better equipped to handle growing export demands.
Chairing a review meeting, the minister explained that a special committee, headed by Port Qasim Authority Chairman Rear Admiral Syed Moazzam Ilyas, had completed its initial work and drawn up key recommendations. These proposals are now ready to be put into action.
New Berths on the Way
One of the major initiatives under discussion is the construction of two multi-purpose berths. Officials believe this step will ease congestion and speed up the handling of export cargo, particularly cement and clinker, which are in demand abroad.
More Storage to Support Exports
The government is also looking to add a new storage facility with space for 30,000 metric tons of cargo. Work on this is expected to begin by the end of 2025, once formal approvals are in place. At the same time, repair work on the port’s existing storage infrastructure is set to be completed within four to five months, ensuring smoother operations by the end of this year.
Using Idle Capacity
Another part of the plan involves tapping into underused berths. The Port Qasim Authority, in consultation with the All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA), will explore shifting some clinker shipments to the Sahiwal berth. If approved, this could reduce pressure on Port Qasim while giving exporters more options.
A Push for Growth
Officials keep on saying that the upgrades will not only provide assistance to cement exporters meet international demand but also help in creating jobs and generate additional revenue for the economy.
“We need to act quickly so Pakistan doesn’t miss this opportunity,” the minister claimed, stressing that timely completion of these projects is extremely important.
If the expansion moves ahead as planned, Port Qasim could soon emerge as a stronger hub for cement and clinker exports — giving the industry, and Pakistan’s wider trade sector, a much-needed lift.