— Islamabad, The Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) has expanded its fleet from 10 to 12 vessels, marking a significant milestone in the country’s maritime development. The two newly acquired Aframax-class tankers, Swan Lake and P. Aliki, are expected to enhance Pakistan’s capacity to transport crude oil and petroleum products more efficiently.
During a high-level meeting in Islamabad, PNSC CEO Zarar Hussain briefed Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry on the fleet expansion. The session was attended by Maritime Secretary Syed Zafar Ali Shah, along with senior officials from Karachi Port Trust and Port Qasim Authority.
Minister Chaudhry emphasized the strategic importance of the new additions, stating that the government is committed to strengthening the national shipping sector. He revealed plans to grow the PNSC fleet to 20 vessels by the end of the year, positioning Pakistan to better manage its rising energy import demands.
Aframax tankers, which typically carry between 80,000 to 120,000 deadweight tonnes, are globally preferred for their ability to access ports that larger vessels cannot. Their inclusion in the PNSC fleet is expected to improve logistical efficiency and reduce dependency on foreign shipping lines.
Pakistan currently relies on imports for nearly 70 percent of its energy needs, with freight payments to foreign carriers costing the country an estimated $4.6 billion annually. Minister Chaudhry noted that expanding the national fleet will help conserve foreign exchange, increase revenue, and strengthen energy security.
He also highlighted PNSC’s efforts to explore new business opportunities both within Pakistan and abroad, as part of a broader initiative to revitalize the maritime economy and improve supply chain resilience.
This expansion reflects a growing focus on self-reliance in energy logistics and signals a new chapter for Pakistan’s shipping industry.