Port Qasim Ranked Among World’s Top 20 Ports by World Bank

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has hailed the World Bank’s recognition of Port Qasim as one of the world’s top 20 improving ports. He called it a milestone in Pakistan’s maritime journey.
According to the World Bank’s latest Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) 2024, compiled with S&P Global Market Intelligence, Port Qasim recorded a 35.2-point improvement between 2020 and 2024. As a result, it ranked ninth among the world’s most improved ports.
Chaudhry described the recognition as a “matter of national pride.” He credited consistent reforms and modernisation for the achievement. “The inclusion of Muhammad Bin Qasim Port among the world’s top 20 improving ports is a reflection of our continuous efforts to modernise operations, adopt global best practices, and enhance efficiency,” he said.
The minister noted that this progress reflects the government’s determination to transform Pakistan’s maritime sector into a competitive regional hub. He highlighted ongoing reforms, technology upgrades, and regulatory improvements as key drivers of success. In addition, Chaudhry praised private operators, especially DP World’s Qasim International Container Terminal (QICT), for maintaining international standards.
He further announced approval for a long-awaited dredging project to deepen the port channel. This will enable larger vessels and greater trade capacity.
Port Qasim Authority (PQA) Chairman Rear Admiral Moazzam Ilyas (Retd) echoed these sentiments. He stated: “This acknowledgment by the World Bank is a testament to the commitment of the entire PQA team. We will continue to invest in innovation, digitalisation, and infrastructure to further elevate our global standing.”
Chaudhry added that the recognition comes as Pakistan strengthens its role as a strategic logistics corridor linking the Middle East, Central Asia, and China. With Karachi and Gwadar ports also undergoing upgrades, the rise of Port Qasim enhances Pakistan’s credentials as a regional shipping hub.