Karachi Port’s Shipping Connectivity Reaches Record High in Q2 2026.
✧ GENERATE BRIEFING +
Karachi Port’s Port Liner Shipping Connectivity Index (PLSCI) reached an all-time high of 343.02 in the second quarter of 2026, reflecting significantly enhanced integration into global maritime trade networks and liner shipping routes. Highlighting the milestone, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry noted that the index jumped from 309.81 in Q1 2026, propelling Pakistan’s overall Liner Shipping Connectivity Index (LSCI) national ranking from 35th to 34th globally.The record connectivity coincides with robust operational momentum at the port, which handled 2,003 vessel calls between July 2025 and mid-June 2026 the highest level in nearly eight years alongside a gross registered tonnage of 84.43 million tonnes. The Ministry of Maritime Affairs expects these stronger trade links to lower logistics friction, improve global market access for local exporters, and streamline import-export operations nationwide.
Karachi Port’s Port Liner Shipping Connectivity Index (PLSCI) reached a record 343.02 in the second quarter of 2026, reflecting stronger links with international liner shipping services and an expanding connection with global trade networks.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the index increased from 309.81 in the first quarter of 2026 to 343.02 in Q2, marking the highest level recorded in the available data.
The PLSCI measures how effectively a port is integrated into the global liner shipping network, using connectivity data covering around 900 ports worldwide. A higher index indicates stronger links to international shipping services and markets.
Karachi Port’s connectivity had stood at 329.24 in Q2 2024, before falling to 319.20 in Q3 and 323.67 in Q4. The index remained around 321 during the first two quarters of 2025, declined to 298.56 in Q3, and recovered to 321.91 in Q4.
The improvement continued into 2026, with Karachi Port’s PLSCI rising to 309.81 in Q1 before reaching the record 343.02 in Q2. The latest increase indicates stronger engagement with international liner shipping routes.
Pakistan’s overall Liner Shipping Connectivity Index (LSCI) ranking also improved from 35th to 34th, according to the minister.
Chaudhry said stronger maritime connectivity could support trade flows, improve Pakistani businesses’ access to international markets and create additional opportunities for exporters and importers. The government is also working with port authorities, shipping lines and other stakeholders to improve port services and facilitate maritime trade.
The latest development follows increased activity at Karachi Port. Government data showed the port handled 2,003 vessel calls between July 2025 and June 13, 2026, the highest level in nearly eight years, while gross registered tonnage reached 84.43 million tonnes.
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