Call for Cohesive National Logistics Strategy to Boost Pakistan’s Trade Potential

Mian Zahid Hussain, leading figure in various business forums, has underscored the pressing need for a unified national logistics strategy to fully realize Pakistan’s trade capabilities.

He stated that Pakistan’s advantageous geographical position and extensive coastline position it as a pivotal regional logistics and maritime center. However, the nation’s logistics sector is still lacking and plagued by inefficiencies, despite its inherent advantages.

A significant decline was observed in Pakistan’s ranking on the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI), dropping from 68th in 2016 to 122nd in 2018. This places Pakistan considerably behind regional competitors such as Vietnam (39), India (44), and Bangladesh (100).

He identified key impediments to advancement, including considerable deficiencies in customs efficiency, infrastructure standards, and the absence of an all-encompassing national plan. He stressed that these inefficiencies drive up production costs by approximately 30% and are thought to cost the economy 4–6% of GDP annually.

To correct this course, he proposed a set of extensive reforms, notably the prompt and complete enactment of the Pakistan Land Port Authority Act 2025, with the aim of establishing a streamlined “one-window” system for trade facilitation.

He advocated for utilizing technologies like the Faceless Customs Assessment system to simplify processes and shorten turnaround times, modernizing port facilities, reinforcing the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC), and investing in a nationwide cold chain network to bolster exports. He noted that while capacity is available, the supportive systems—regulatory structures, infrastructure, and technology—remain inadequate. By strategically addressing these shortcomings, Pakistan can transform its logistics sector from a hindrance into a potent catalyst for sustainable, export-oriented growth and worldwide competitiveness.

Mian Zahid concluded that a joined-up national strategy is vital to making logistics a core component of Pakistan’s trade agenda.