Transporters’ Strike Disrupts Cargo Movement at Karachi Ports

The Transporters of Goods Association (TGA) has escalated its strike action at Karachi’s ports, resulting in a complete standstill of import and export cargo transportation between factories and seaports across the country.

The strike has now entered its fourth day, raising concerns about the potential spoilage of perishable goods and the accumulation of demurrages, which are charged in US dollars on the delayed shipments.

Jawed Bilwani, President of the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), stated that the ongoing strike by transporters will significantly compound the challenges involved in boosting Pakistan’s export capabilities.

He emphasized the urgency of the situation, urging relevant authorities to address the matter promptly to prevent the strike from prolonging and to restore normal business operations.

A source within the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) verified that the transporters initiated the strike due to disagreements with the Sindh government regarding vehicle fitness standards.

The KPT source clarified that the port authorities are not involved in the dispute.

The transporters are requesting a six-month period to address issues pertaining to fitness certifications, heavy vehicle repairs, and the installation of surveillance cameras.

Khurram Ijaz, former vice president of the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), noted that cargo movements at Karachi ports were partially affected during the initial two days of the strike.

Ijaz further explained that transporters have completely ceased cargo movement by securing support from other transport associations.

He cautioned that if the current situation persists and authorities do not facilitate negotiations with the transporters, cargo ships may begin departing ports without their loads within the next few days.

Ijaz warned that the disruption would extend to factory operations and adversely affect the country’s import and export activities within a short timeframe.

He highlighted the existing challenges in enhancing exports and stimulating economic growth.

Approximately 10,000 containers are typically transported daily within Karachi and throughout the nation.

FPCCI vice president Asif Sakhi added that nearly 90% of import and export activities are currently suspended because of the strike.

Sakhi warned that ships waiting at anchorage may be unable to dock due to space limitations at the ports, leading to further disruptions in import and export orders. He also noted that thousands of containers are stranded, causing significant congestion at the terminals.

According to TGA president Tariq Gujar, roughly 10,000 containers are moved daily within Karachi and across the country.

In a formal communication, the TGA has requested a six-month extension to address vehicle-related issues, including camera installations, the release of impounded vehicles, and the cessation of vehicle registration cancellations.