Pakistan’s largest container terminal operator, connecting global trade as a key NVOCC gateway
Karachi International Container Terminal Limited (KICT) is the leading container terminal operator at the Port of Karachi, Pakistan. Established in 1996, KICT operates under a concession agreement with Karachi Port Trust and is a member of the Hutchison Ports global network. The terminal is strategically positioned on the Arabian Sea, providing critical access to major international shipping routes and serving as a vital conduit for Pakistan’s import and export trade. KICT operates on a build, operate, and transfer (BOT) basis and manages berths 26 to 30 at West Wharf, Karachi Port. The facility covers 26.03 hectares, with a total quay length of 973 meters and a depth alongside of 12 meters, enabling it to handle large container vessels and high cargo volumes. KICT is equipped with advanced cargo handling equipment, including ship-to-shore gantry cranes, mobile harbor cranes, and a temperature-controlled reefer facility. The company is recognized for its operational excellence, compliance with international security and quality standards (ISPS Code and ISO 9001:2008), and its role in supporting Pakistan’s economic growth. KICT’s services are utilized by major global shipping lines and numerous NVOCC operators, making it a central hub for containerized cargo in the region. KICT continues to invest in infrastructure and technology to expand its capacity and enhance service quality, positioning itself as the terminal operator of choice for shipping lines, NVOCCs, and the broader logistics community in South Asia.
KICT operates as a public limited, non-listed company with its administration based at Berth Nos. 26-30, Dockyard Road, West Wharf, Karachi. The company is managed by a team of experienced executives and benefits from the strategic oversight of Hutchison Ports, a global leader in port operations. The leadership structure emphasizes operational efficiency, compliance, and continuous investment in workforce development.
KICT’s terminal is equipped with seven ship-to-shore gantry cranes, two mobile harbor cranes, and 23 rubber-tyred gantry cranes for efficient container handling. The facility features a temperature-controlled reefer yard with 528 plugs and a modern container yard with advanced stacking capabilities. KICT utilizes state-of-the-art terminal management systems and invests in ongoing technology upgrades to ensure high productivity and security standards.
As part of the Hutchison Ports network, KICT is connected to 308 berths in 51 ports across 25 countries, enabling seamless integration with global shipping routes. The terminal serves as a gateway for cargo moving between Pakistan and major international markets in Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and North America. KICT’s strategic location and connectivity support a wide range of trade routes and facilitate efficient cargo movement for regional and global shippers.
KICT is recognized as the largest and most productive container terminal operator in Pakistan, reflecting strong financial performance and market leadership. The company’s ongoing investments in infrastructure and technology have supported steady growth in cargo throughput and operational capacity. As a key member of the Hutchison Ports group, KICT benefits from global expertise and financial backing, reinforcing its position in the regional logistics market.
KICT offers comprehensive container terminal services, including full container load (FCL) and less-than-container load (LCL) handling, vessel berthing, cargo consolidation, and temperature-controlled reefer operations. The terminal provides 24/7 operations, advanced security, and customs clearance support, catering to the needs of shipping lines, NVOCCs, and freight forwarders. KICT’s services are designed to facilitate efficient cargo movement, support multimodal connectivity, and ensure high standards of safety and environmental protection. The terminal’s strategic partnerships and integration with the Hutchison Ports network enable it to offer value-added logistics solutions for international trade.
