Government official advocates for prompt initiation of Pakistan's inaugural ferry service and regulatory modifications
Pakistan Prepares to Launch Ferry Service Connecting Gwadar to Gulf Countries
Pakistan is set to launch a ferry service connecting Gwadar port to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, with five private firms having submitted their proposals for the service [1][2][4]. The proposed ferry service aims to provide an affordable and reliable travel solution for pilgrims traveling to Iran and Iraq, as well as facilitate regional connectivity and trade [1][2][3][4].
The government anticipates multiple benefits from this initiative, particularly to facilitate religious travel. The ferry service is expected to promote regional connectivity and trade, reduce transport costs, and cut transit times for passengers and cargo, thus supporting the growth of Gwadar as a strategic transit and logistics hub [1][2][3][4].
Pakistan's Maritime Affairs Minister, Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, has called for the swift launch of the country's first ferry service. He has directed a reduction of the license issuance period from six months to one month to expedite the process [4]. The minister also emphasized the need for exploring flexible financial models to attract private sector participation in the ferry service [1].
The proposed ferry service will also contribute to Pakistan's efforts to capitalize on its geostrategic location to boost transit trade. The service aligns with the broader objectives of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and aims to highlight Gwadar on the international maritime map and boost Pakistan’s economic and strategic connectivity with Middle Eastern and Central Asian countries [1][3].
The feasibility studies and regulatory frameworks for the ferry service are currently being finalized, and the government is holding consultations with stakeholders, including private operators and regional maritime authorities [1]. The initiative has also received provincial support, with cooperation from Balochistan authorities to ensure its successful implementation [1][4].
Approximately 700,000 to 1,000,000 Pakistani pilgrims travel to Iran and Iraq each year, and if 20% opt for ferries in the first three years, it could represent significant economic potential [3]. Pakistan is also working to cut container dwell time at its seaports by up to 70% to improve trade competitiveness and ease congestion [5]. Port charges for exporters have been reduced by 50% at Pakistan's second largest Port Qasim [6].
The exact routes under consideration include direct maritime links between Gwadar and Gulf countries such as Oman, though detailed specific routes remain under evaluation by the government [1][2][4]. A pilot launch of the ferry service is expected in the coming weeks [1]. The minister believes that if implemented effectively, the ferry service could become a vital new transport link across the region [2].
[1] Dawn News, "Pakistan to launch ferry service to Gulf countries," 15 March 2023. [2] The Express Tribune, "Government mulls over ferry service to boost religious tourism," 16 March 2023. [3] The News International, "Pakistan's ferry service to connect Gwadar with Gulf countries," 17 March 2023. [4] Geo News, "Chaudhry calls for swift launch of first ferry service," 18 March 2023. [5] The Business Recorder, "Pakistan to cut container dwell time at ports," 20 March 2023. [6] The Express Tribune, "Port Qasim cuts port charges for exporters," 22 March 2023.
- The ferry service, when launched, could potentially revolutionize the business industry in Pakistan by reducing transport costs and reigniting regional connectivity, facilitating trade between Gwadar and Gulf countries.
- The proposed ferry service, aligning with CPEC objectives, aims to boost Pakistan's economic and strategic ties with Middle Eastern and Central Asian countries, thereby enhancing the country's profile in the global art and public-transit industry.
- In an effort to streamline the economic side of the service, the government is evaluating flexible financial models to invite the active participation of private businesses and finance sectors in the ferry service.
- With the ferry service, athletic teams, artists, and businesses alike may benefit from the direct transportation links between Gwadar and Gulf countries, potentially elevating sport, art, and trade collaborations to new heights.
- By providing a reliable travel solution for pilgrims and facilitating trade, the ferry service initiatives could generate substantial income for the finance and transportation industries, given the significant number of Pakistani pilgrims traveling to Iran and Iraq annually.
