New Bangladesh-Pakistan direct shipping route starts delivering results: DP World

KARACHI : More than 1,000 containers were shipped between Pakistan and Bangladesh since the launch of the ‘first direct shipping route’ between the two South Asian countries in October, according to the port operator DP World.  

The new direct link has led to a more than a 50% reduction in transit times, as well as improved connectivity through eliminating transshipment requirements.

It is a joint venture between Dubai-headquartered DP World and NLC that is making full use of the new route. This is part of a wider service connecting six countries, rotating between: Port Klang (Malaysia), Jebel Ali, Karachi (Pakistan), Chittagong (Bangladesh), Belawan (Indonesia), and Mundra (India). 

“This new route also connects to many of our regional and global routes, giving businesses and traders connectivity to all parts of our global network,” said Sultan Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and Chief Executive of DP World.

Strong start

Launched on October 30, the first voyage carried 304 containers booked directly from Karachi to Chittagong.

“By eliminating the need for trans-shipment, the direct route offers a remarkably efficient 11-day transit between Karachi and Chattogram, ensuring faster delivery times and reduced logistics costs,” says a DP World statement.

“The second service saw more than double the container load between Karachi to Chattogram, underscoring the growing demand for this service,” it added.