Pakistani industrialists have raised alarm over worsening shortages of raw materials and mounting trade disruptions, attributing the crisis to the ongoing Middle East conflict and logistical bottlenecks at key transport points.
Stakeholders informed the meeting that international shipping lines have started imposing war surcharges even on shipments that were already in transit before the conflict began. They noted that unjustified charges are also being applied to west-bound cargo that does not pass through affected regions.
Adding to the challenges, exporters reported that insurers have withdrawn war-risk coverage, leaving shipments exposed to risks such as loss, diversion, or damage without compensation. Shipping companies have also issued force majeure notices, stating they are not liable for cargo safety and may off-load containers at alternate ports.
Further complicating matters, some shipping lines are reportedly withholding Bills of Lading (BLs) to recover dues from agents, an action exporters termed illegal as it disrupts banking processes and delays fulfillment of international contracts.
Importers also cited congestion and higher handling costs at Port Qasim, where vessel berthing constraints are forcing cargo diversion to more expensive terminals.
