PNSC Revival Plan Aims to Cut Freight Costs, Boost National Shipping Capacity

Independent Report
Islamabad: Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) has unveiled a comprehensive revival and expansion plan aimed at strengthening the country’s maritime sector, reducing dependence on foreign shipping lines, and saving billions in foreign exchange. Currently, PNSC operates only 10 vessels, transporting just 11 percent of Pakistan’s trade cargo, while nearly 90 percent of imports and exports rely on foreign ships, costing the country around $6 billion annually in freight payments.
A major challenge facing PNSC is its ageing fleet, with several vessels nearing the end of their operational life, making post-2030 operations commercially unviable—particularly under new International Maritime Organization (IMO) decarbonization regulations. To address these issues, a strategic business plan for 2026–2030 proposes expanding the active fleet to 54 vessels through public-sector restructuring and collaboration, including the planned inclusion of the National Logistics Cell (NLC).
Under the initiative, Pakistan’s national cargo share is expected to rise from 5 percent to 56 percent, increasing revenues from $162 million to $1.785 billion. The plan also ensures 100 percent replacement of obsolete ships, optimal use of liquidity, and institutional reforms through international financial and legal advisors to transform PNSC into a modern, efficient, and professionally managed shipping entity.