DP World and NLC have shipped more than 1,000 containers between Pakistan and Bangladesh since launching the first direct shipping route between the two countries in October, a strategic initiative that will significantly strengthen trade and regional connectivity in South Asia, according to the company's release.
The latest shipment onboard the MV Yuan Xiang Fa Zhan left Karachi and is set to arrive at Bangladesh’s Chittagong Port on 11 January with a variety of goods, including industrial raw materials, agricultural products, and textile fabrics, showcasing the service's role in supporting regional trade.
The new Pakistan-Bangladesh direct maritime link offers significant benefits to importers and exporters, including more than a 50% reduction in transit times, improved connectivity by eliminating transshipment, and a more reliable competitive logistics solution. Having already completed several successful trips, the service has been warmly welcomed by business communities in both countries.
This initiative marks the start of a new era in trade, driven by the joint venture between DP World and NLC, and is an essential part of a larger regional roadmap focused on growth, prosperity, and progress for the entire region. It is part of a wider service connecting six countries, rotating between: Port Klang (Malaysia), Jebel Ali (UAE), Karachi (Pakistan), Chittagong (Bangladesh), Belawan (Indonesia), and Mundra (India). Launched on 30 October, the first voyage carried 304 containers booked directly from Karachi to Chittagong.
By eliminating the need for transshipment, the direct route offers a remarkably efficient 11-day transit between Karachi and Chittagong, ensuring faster delivery times and reduced logistics costs. The second service saw more than double the container load between Karachi to Chittagong, underscoring the growing demand for this service.