One of the world’s largest container ships, capable of carrying up to 20,000 containers, arrived at Karachi Port on Sunday.
Port authorities said the vessel’s arrival demonstrates Karachi Port’s capacity to accommodate ultra-large container ships, marking a significant milestone in the country’s drive to strengthen its position on regional and global shipping routes.
The MSC ERICA, measuring 398.5 meters long and 59 meters wide, is among the largest container vessels in operation.
With a gross tonnage of 194,308 metric tons and a 12-meter draft, the ship berthed at South Asia Pakistan Terminals (SAPTL), where more than 3,000 containers will be handled before it departs for Dalian, China.
In a statement, the Karachi Port Trust said the vessel’s arrival reaffirmed the port’s capability to accommodate ultra-large container ships.
The ship’s master praised Karachi Port pilots for their professionalism, safe navigation and hospitality, describing the facility as one of the region’s finest ports.
The visit comes as Pakistan advances reforms aimed at strengthening its maritime sector through infrastructure upgrades, improved customs procedures and greater investment in the blue economy.
Earlier this month, Karachi Port climbed 30 places to 69th in global port rankings after improvements in cargo handling and customs clearance, while Port Qasim also ranked among the world’s most improved ports.
