Date: 19-4-2026
Let’s be clear.
The disruption in the Strait of Hormuz is not just another geopolitical event — it is a massive shift in global trade behavior.
• Shipping costs are rising.
• Insurance is spiking.
• Delays are becoming the norm.
And global logistics players are doing what they always do in such moments:
👉 They are looking for alternatives.
Pakistan has one — and it’s being underutilized.
The Karachi–Rimdan (Gabd) corridor is not a concept.
It is a ready, strategic route connecting:
➡️ Karachi Ports
➡️ Iran
➡️ Turkey, Azerbaijan
➡️ Central Asia (CIS)
This is Pakistan’s chance to become a regional transit powerhouse.
But here is the problem — execution is lagging.
Yes, SRO 525(I)/2026 exists.
Yes, policy intent is clear.
But on the ground?
❌ No seamless manifest change (Transshipment → TIR)
❌ WeBOC system limitations
❌ Weak integration with PSW
❌ Operational delays at critical nodes
Let’s be honest:
👉 Without system readiness, corridors don’t exist — they remain PowerPoint slides.
This is a leadership moment for Pakistan Customs
Because the market will not wait.
Iran is moving.
Central Asia is engaging.
Alternative corridors are evolving fast.
👉 If we delay, cargo will move elsewhere.
👉 If we act, Pakistan becomes the gateway.
What needs to happen — NOW:
✔ Enable manifest amendment in WeBOC & PSW
✔ Operationalize multimodal TIR (Sea–Land–Air)
✔ Activate Rimdan border in real terms (not notifications)
✔ Notify and enable airports as TIR stations
✔ Set clear deadlines and ownership within FBR
Bottom line
The policy is already there.
The geography is already there.
The demand is already there.
👉 What is missing is speed.
And in global logistics, speed defines leadership.
Final thought
Pakistan has talked about becoming a trade corridor for decades.
This is not theory anymore.
This is a live opportunity.
👉 The only question is:
Will we execute — or will we watch others take the lead?
🔗 Let’s discuss:
What is the ONE reform that can unlock Pakistan’s transit potential immediately?
📢 Muhammad Anwar CMILT,
anwar@nstn.pk +923484863230
