In a landmark development for Pakistan’s maritime and automotive sectors, Karachi Port has received the country’s first-ever roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) shipment carrying more than 2,000 electric vehicles (EVs), marking a major step toward modernizing port operations and supporting the growing adoption of electric mobility.
According to the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, the Ro-Ro vessel MV Grande Shanghai successfully berthed at Karachi Port, delivering one of the largest consignments of electric vehicles ever imported into Pakistan. Officials described the arrival as a historic milestone in the country’s shipping and trade industry.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the successful handling of the first Ro-Ro electric vehicle shipment reflects Pakistan’s progress toward developing a modern and efficient maritime infrastructure. He noted that the achievement demonstrates the country’s ability to accommodate advanced international shipping operations while enhancing the efficiency of cargo handling at its ports.
The minister said the introduction of Ro-Ro shipping for vehicle imports is expected to improve logistics, reduce cargo handling time, and strengthen Pakistan’s position as a regional trade hub. He added that modern port facilities will play a key role in supporting future growth in trade and investment.
Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) vessels are specially designed to transport wheeled cargo such as cars, trucks, buses, and heavy machinery. Unlike conventional cargo ships, vehicles are driven directly onto the vessel at the port of origin and driven off upon arrival, eliminating the need for cranes and container handling. This process significantly reduces loading and unloading time, improves operational efficiency, and lowers logistics costs.
Industry experts believe the arrival of such a large electric vehicle consignment reflects increasing interest in Pakistan’s EV market and aligns with global efforts to promote environmentally friendly transportation. The use of Ro-Ro shipping is also expected to encourage faster and more cost-effective vehicle imports in the future.
The successful docking of MV Grande Shanghai and the handling of Pakistan’s first large-scale Ro-Ro electric vehicle shipment is being viewed as an important milestone in the country’s maritime history, highlighting ongoing efforts to modernize port infrastructure and facilitate international trade.
