KARACHI: In a milestone for Pakistan’s transport and trade infrastructure, more than 2,000 electric vehicles (EVs) have arrived in Karachi aboard the country’s first roll‑on/roll‑off (RoRo) shipment.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced that the MV Grande Shanghai successfully berthed at the Karachi Gateway Terminal Multipurpose (KGTML), marking the debut of specialized RoRo handling at Karachi Port.
پاکستان کی پہلی رورو شپمنٹ سے 2 ہزار سے زائد الیکٹرک گاڑیاں کراچی پہنچ گئیں۔ وفاقی وزیر بحری امور جنید انوار چوہدری کا کہنا ہے کہ ایم وی گرینڈے شنگھائی کامیابی سے کراچی پورٹ کے کے جی ٹی ایم ایل ٹرمینل پر لنگرانداز ہو گئے ۔رورو جہازوں سے گاڑیاں براہِ راست لوڈ اور اَن لوڈ کی جاتی… pic.twitter.com/z6HZZEu5Dt
— Azaz Syed (@AzazSyed) July 17, 2026
Operated with the involvement of AD Ports Group, the terminal is part of ongoing reforms aimed at positioning Karachi as a regional logistics and transshipment hub.
RoRo vessels allow vehicles to be driven directly on and off the ship, eliminating the need for container loading.
Officials noted that this method is more efficient and cost‑effective for bulk imports compared to containerized shipments previously used for EV consignments such as BYD’s.
The system reduces logistics costs and minimizes damage risks, reflecting Pakistan’s move toward modernized cargo handling.
Minister Chaudhry said the development underscores the government’s focus on modern port facilities to strengthen trade potential.
“This is progress in infrastructure modernization, EV adoption, and port capabilities,” he stated, while cautioning that it should be seen as an incremental step rather than a transformative breakthrough.
Industry experts highlighted that importing over 2,000 EVs in one consignment is a solid volume, supporting Pakistan’s push toward greener transport, reduced oil dependence, and lower emissions. The government has already introduced incentives such as reduced duties and federal excise tax on affordable EV models, aligning with its broader energy and climate goals.
Analysts view the arrival as a sign of Pakistan’s readiness to handle specialized vehicle cargo, while also reflecting the country’s gradual shift toward sustainable mobility.
The berthing of MV Grande Shanghai at KGTML signals improved port capabilities and adds momentum to efforts to modernize Karachi’s role in regional trade.
