PAKISTAN
Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, the Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, recently met with a prominent delegation from Hutchison Ports, led by Mr. Andy Tsoi, Managing Director for the Middle East & Africa Division.
The high-level delegation also included key figures such as Mr. Changsu Kim, CEO of South Asia Pakistan Terminal, Mr. Navaid Qureshi, CEO of Karachi International Container Terminal, and Mr. Taimur Khan Afridi, Head of Government Relations for Hutchison Ports Pakistan.
During the meeting, the delegation provided the Minister with an overview of Hutchison Ports’ 25-year operational history in Pakistan, where they have successfully managed two major terminals: HPKICT and HPSAPT. Over this time, Hutchison Ports has contributed more than PKR 225 billion to the government’s revenues and provided jobs for 5,000 individuals across the country.
The delegation also shared their ambitious plans for future investment, including a USD 1 billion project to modernize their existing terminals. This investment aims to improve operational efficiency, enhance logistics connectivity, and introduce advanced automation technologies. The planned upgrades include infrastructure development, road enhancements to improve cargo flow, and the transformation of HPKICT into a state-of-the-art automated terminal. Additionally, Hutchison Ports intends to establish a 52-hectare logistics park to further boost trade connectivity.
As part of their automation initiative, Hutchison Ports plans to introduce remote-controlled quay cranes, automated rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes, electric trucks, and digitalized gate operations. They also intend to launch training programs for maritime professionals, focusing on port operations, management, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in port logistics.
The delegation emphasized that these upgrades are expected to generate at least USD 4 billion in revenue over the next 25 years through contributions in the form of royalties, rent, and taxes.
Minister Aurangzeb expressed his appreciation for Hutchison Ports’ long-standing commitment to Pakistan’s maritime sector. He acknowledged the company’s crucial role in driving trade and economic development in the country. Reaffirming the government’s dedication to creating a favorable business environment, the Minister assured the delegation of continued support for strategic investments that contribute to Pakistan’s infrastructure growth and overall economic prosperity.
PID/ERMD
