Hutchison Port Holdings Limited, a private holding company incorporated in the British Virgin Islands, has proposed a $1 billion investment plan to modernize Pakistan’s port infrastructure.
The proposal was discussed during a meeting between a high-level delegation, led by Andy Tsoi, Managing Director for the Middle East & Africa Division of Hutchison Ports, and Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Qaiser Ahmed Shaikh, along with Maritime Secretary Syed Zafar Ali Shah. Accompanying Andy Tsoi were Capt. Rashid Jamil, Country Advisor for Hutchison Ports Pakistan, and Leonard Fung, Business Director for the Middle East & Africa Division at Hutchison Ports.
The proposal includes an upfront $200 million Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to modernize Pakistan’s port infrastructure and elevate its role in global trade, according to a press release.
The investment focuses on upgrading Karachi International Container Terminal (KICT) and South Asia Pakistan Terminals Limited (SAPT) with advanced automation technologies to enhance operational efficiency and adopt eco-friendly solutions. Plans include introducing electrified and remote-control equipment to reduce carbon emissions, aligning with the government’s commitment to sustainable development.
Additionally, the proposal includes the establishment of a state-of-the-art warehousing depot to meet the growing demands of Pakistan’s trade sector. Significant funding is also proposed to improve road infrastructure around the south wharf to ensure smooth container traffic flow and strengthen supply chain efficiency.
Welcoming the proposal, Minister Qaiser Ahmed Shaikh remarked: “This partnership represents a significant milestone in Pakistan’s journey to becoming a global trade leader. Hutchison Ports’ confidence in our economic potential highlights the transformative opportunities in our maritime sector.”
Andy Tsoi expressed his views, stating: “We are proud to partner with the Government of Pakistan to modernize and innovate its maritime infrastructure. This proposed investment reflects our long-term commitment to enhancing trade and logistics in the region.”
Other delegates shared optimism about the project’s potential to significantly enhance Pakistan’s trade and logistics capabilities, further cementing Hutchison Ports’ long-standing partnership with the country.
The Ministry of Maritime Affairs reaffirmed its focus on fostering partnerships that drive economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen Pakistan’s global trade networks. This landmark proposed investment underscores the country’s potential to become a key player in the global maritime industry.