Pakistan aims to increase its cement and clinker exports to Bangladesh, officials announced recently. Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Haroon Akhtar Khan directed the State Bank of Pakistan to coordinate with the country’s ambassador in Dhaka. This coordination will help obtain a list of Bangladeshi cement importers, streamlining Letters of Credit and enhancing competitiveness.
The Prime Minister’s aide chaired a meeting of the Task Force on boosting cement exports, emphasizing the government’s commitment to support exporters. The meeting included representatives from Port Qasim Authority, Karachi Port Trust, State Bank of Pakistan, Board of Investment, and Gwadar Port Authority. Officials discussed ongoing progress and new initiatives to facilitate export growth.
Port Qasim Authority plans to increase storage capacity by 30,000 metric tons, with repairs to existing facilities expected by December 2025. Additionally, two new multi-purpose berths will be completed soon, and berths 10 to 17 at Karachi Port Trust will be ready by April 2026. These developments aim to streamline export logistics and capacity.
To further improve operations, a sub-working group was formed with representatives from the Ministries of Railways and Maritime Affairs, KPT, and private stakeholders. This group will identify land near Karachi Northern Bypass for new truck marshalling yards, which will reduce transport time and costs for cement shipments.
The government’s focused efforts aim to capitalize on Bangladesh’s growing market demand, improving export efficiency and boosting Pakistan’s cement industry. Enhanced port infrastructure and streamlined processes are expected to support this ambitious growth plan.