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Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said that Karachi Port had recorded its highest-ever shipping connectivity, with its Port Liner Shipping Connectivity Index (PLSCI) rising to 343.02 in the second quarter of 2026 from 309.81 in the first quarter.<\/strong><\/p>\n In a statement, the minister said the PLSCI, based on connectivity data covering around 900 ports worldwide, highlighted Karachi Port\u2019s growing role in the global shipping network.<\/p>\n He said Karachi Port\u2019s PLSCI increased from 309.81 in the first quarter of 2026 to 343.02 in the second quarter, marking the highest score recorded during the period covered by the data.<\/p>\n According to the data, Karachi Port\u2019s PLSCI stood at 329.24 in the second quarter of 2024 before declining to 319.20 in the third quarter and 323.67 in the fourth quarter.<\/p>\n The index was recorded at 321.70 in the first quarter of 2025 and 321.84 in the second quarter before falling to 298.56 in the third quarter.<\/p>\n It subsequently recovered to 321.91 in the fourth quarter of 2025 and 309.81 in the first quarter of 2026 before reaching the record 343.02 in the second quarter.<\/p>\n Junaid Chaudhry said the improvement demonstrated progress in strengthening Pakistan\u2019s maritime trade connectivity and highlighted an improvement in the country\u2019s overall Liner Shipping Connectivity Index (LSCI) ranking from 35th to 34th.<\/p>\n He said stronger maritime connectivity could support trade flows, improve access to international markets and enable Pakistani businesses to connect more efficiently with global supply chains.<\/p>\n The minister said the government was working to improve port services, facilitate shipping activity and create an environment conducive to trade and investment.<\/p>\n He added that ports were being positioned to play a greater role in international trade and regional connectivity, while improved connectivity at Karachi Port would help strengthen Pakistan\u2019s links with global markets.<\/p>\n Chaudhry said the latest PLSCI and LSCI figures should be viewed in the broader context of efforts to modernize the maritime sector and improve the efficiency and competitiveness of the country\u2019s ports.<\/p>\n He said the government would continue working with port authorities, shipping lines and other stakeholders to further strengthen Pakistan\u2019s maritime links. The minister described the latest figures as representing \u201cstronger global links, more trade opportunities and a more connected Pakistan.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n