Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Industries and Production, Mr. Haroon Akhtar Khan, chaired a high-level meeting of the task force formed to enhance the competitiveness of Pakistan’s cement and clinker exports.
The meeting reviewed key logistical and infrastructural issues including the movement of cargo on Lyari Expressway, challenges faced by DHA and Cantonment authorities on Malir Expressway, and the need for increased storage capacity at Port Qasim.
The Ministry of Communications informed the forum that allowing cargo traffic on Lyari Expressway would incur a cost of Rs. 4 to 5 billion. The National Highway Authority (NHA) is working on two major motorway projects: Sukkur–Hyderabad at a cost of Rs. 600 billion, and Hyderabad–Karachi at a cost of Rs. 400 billion.
SAPM Haroon Akhtar Khan emphasized that issues faced by DHA and Cantonment authorities on Malir Expressway are still unresolved and need urgent attention.
The task force also informed that truck marshalling yards are being connected to railway tracks to improve cargo handling. Chairman of Port Qasim Authority informed that port charges have been reduced by 50 percent to support exporters.
The committee highlighted that Karachi Port Trust (KPT) charges have remained lower than other ports since 1994.
To facilitate cement exports, SAPM Haroon Akhtar Khan said discussions will be held with the Sindh government to acquire land for extending the railway track. A sub-committee has been constituted to meet with the Chief Minister of Sindh in this regard.
According to the committee, 40,000 tons of cement are currently being exported to the United States from Berth No. 2 (MW2) at Port Qasim. SAPM Haroon Akhtar Khan remarked that this successful export to the U.S. demonstrates the global competitiveness of Pakistan’s cement sector.
He stressed that to meet the upcoming export target of 1.5 million tons next year, enhancing storage capacity at Port Qasim is essential.
Cement exporters present at the meeting also reiterated the need for increased storage facilities to meet growing international demand.
