The federal government on Thursday revealed an ambitious $100 billion “Maritime @100” vision aimed at transforming Pakistan into a global blue economy hub by its centenary in 2047, a strategy underpinned by a massive expansion of the national shipping fleet and a focus on climate-resilient growth.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, announced the comprehensive strategy at the closing ceremony of the Pakistan International Maritime Exhibition and Conference 2025 (PIMEC). He stated that the nation”s under-utilized seas are now central to its economic future and reaffirmed the government”s commitment to developing a prosperous and sustainable maritime nation.
Chaudhry characterized PIMEC 2025 as a “declaration of Pakistan’s maritime intent,” noting the event successfully attracted international investors and experts to explore opportunities in shipping, fisheries, logistics, and shipbuilding.
A key component of the plan involves a significant augmentation of the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) fleet. The minister confirmed the fleet has already grown from 10 to 12 ships, with three more expected within two months. He added that tenders for 12 additional vessels are being processed, with plans to expand the fleet to 30 ships by 2026 and 60 within the next three years.
In a move toward sustainable practices, the ministry announced the establishment of Pakistan’s first Green Ship Repair and Recycling Yard at Port Qasim. This facility will be part of a larger “Sea to Steel Integrated Maritime Industrial Complex,” which is also intended to support the revival of Pakistan Steel Mills. A separate Rs. 12 billion investment is allocated to modernize the Gaddani Ship Recycling Yard to meet the Hong Kong Convention”s environmental standards.
The government also finalized a new National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy for 2025-2035, which targets a doubling of fisheries exports within a single year. Further initiatives include granting a license to the nation”s first private ferry service operator and enhancing maritime education by creating an endowment fund and upgrading the Pakistan Marine Academy into a full-fledged Maritime University.
Outlining a long-term “Maritime Century (2047-2147)” vision, the minister detailed five core pillars: developing three new deep-sea ports, producing “Made-in-Pakistan” ships at AI-enabled industrial complexes, achieving 100% green digital ports, expanding the national fleet, and leading regional maritime cooperation.
“The sea is our next frontier for trade, prosperity, energy, food and climate resilience,” Chaudhry declared, emphasizing Pakistan”s strategic location as a natural gateway connecting South Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, and East Africa.
He concluded by calling for renewed regional innovation and cooperation, asserting that Pakistan”s future “lies in the sea from Gwadar to the global ocean.”