Pakistan has received its first roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessel carrying more than 2,000 electric vehicles, marking the country’s first use of the specialized shipping method for automobile imports and a major upgrade to its port logistics.

The M.V. Grande Shanghai berthed at Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited (KGTML), where the electric vehicles were driven directly off the ship using built-in ramps instead of being unloaded by cranes. The process significantly reduces cargo handling time, lowers operational costs and improves efficiency.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry described the arrival as a milestone for Pakistan’s maritime sector, saying it reflects the government’s efforts to modernize port operations and bring them in line with global shipping practices.

The minister said the shipment followed his approval of RoRo imports for electric vehicles during a maritime committee meeting last month. He added that the new shipping service would strengthen Pakistan’s logistics network, facilitate vehicle imports and support the country’s transition toward cleaner transportation.

RoRo vessels are designed to transport wheeled cargo such as cars, trucks and heavy machinery. Unlike conventional container ships, vehicles are driven directly on and off the vessel through built-in ramps, making loading and unloading faster and more efficient.

The development is part of broader efforts to modernize Pakistan’s ports and logistics infrastructure. Earlier this month, Port Qasim handled the largest LNG cargo in its history, successfully berthing a vessel carrying 171,951 cubic metres of liquefied natural gas despite severe monsoon conditions.