Pakistan has granted its first international ferry service license, paving the way for sea routes connecting the nation with Iran and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states. The Ministry of Maritime Affairs announced the landmark decision on Monday following a meeting of the Licensing Committee, which includes representatives from several key ministries and shipping authorities. The committee granted the license to an international ferry operator.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, described the approval as a groundbreaking development consistent with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision and the country’s National Maritime Policy. He highlighted the potential for enhanced regional ties, increased religious tourism, and expanded economic engagements through maritime transportation.

The ferry service is projected to cater to a large number of passengers each year, including pilgrims journeying to Iran and Iraq, as well as laborers and holidaymakers heading to GCC nations. Chaudhry stated that the sea route will ease congestion on roadways and offer a more budget-friendly alternative to air travel for Pakistani expatriates and religious voyagers.

“Preliminary voyages will embark from the ports of Karachi and Gwadar utilizing contemporary ferries furnished with necessary facilities to guarantee secure and economical passage. Further expansion of routes and port visits will be contingent upon passenger volume and bilateral pacts,” he elaborated.

The minister underscored that the introduction of this ferry service is integral to Pakistan’s comprehensive plan to cultivate its maritime economy, enhance trade logistics, and advance maritime tourism, demonstrating a renewed focus on establishing sustainable regional sea transport infrastructure.