THE unified transshipment incentive package announced by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs for Karachi Port and Port Qasim is an important and significant step towards strengthening Pakistan’s position in regional maritime trade. Recent developments have highlighted the strategic importance of Pakistan’s ports. Karachi Port handled a surge in transshipment cargo while Gwadar Port also saw an increased activity. The newly announced incentive package is a step in that direction, as shipping decisions are ultimately driven by reliability, affordability and operational efficiency. For Pakistan to emerge as a regional transshipment hub, similar measures must continue.