Gulftainer establishes Pakistani joint venture

The intention of this joint venture is to invest in new equipment and systems, with the aim of revamping and enhancing inland transportation within Pakistan and to enable customers to enjoy reliable and time sensitive transportation options, which up until now have been deficient.

Gulftainer operate and manage the container terminals of Sharjah and Khorfakkan and have had thirty years experience of trucking and logistics activity, during which time they have operated a large fleet of vehicles plus ICDs and CFS, providing seamless interfaces between sea and land transportation.

Gulftainer General Manager Peter Richards and Mr. Yusuf Farrukh, CEO, Pak Shaheen Group both commented:

'It is evident that the economic environment in Pakistan has improved dramatically in recent years. This development has allowed for a much greater amount of import and export volume to pass through Karachi's terminals.'

'The major part of these throughputs move to and from the inland areas of the country, thus this new joint venture aims to provide improved transportation alternatives on which inland customers in Pakistan can rely to enable them to move their import and export cargo with more confidence - on time and on budget'.

The Pak Shaheen group was established in 1946 and is now one of the most experienced shipping agencies in Pakistan. The group diversified into the transport and logistics industry in 1980, forming M.T.I. (Multi-Modal Transport International), but has mainly remained in the role of a freight forwarder and transport broker. However, with Gulftainer as a partner the goal of this agreement is to develop the largest transport and logistics firm in Pakistan, with fully owned equipment and facilities.

An initial million dollar investment to procure 22 vehicles and trailers has already been undertaken. This will be further developed as the company establishes itself within the local markets. The goal is to establish a fleet of over 100 trucks providing a 'never before' experienced service to the importers and exporters. The actual transport fleet will be supplemented by the introduction of three state-of-the-art logistics centers' with fully comprehensive I.T. controlled bonded container and warehouse facilities.

'As all of our vehicles are fitted with the latest GPS tracking systems, which will in turn be linked to our I.T. main frame, for the first time ever shipping lines, importers and exporters will be able to monitor their cargoes throughout Pakistan, if required on a continuous basis.' said Peter Richards.

Future development plans include dedicated reefer parks and cold stores. In total, the estimated investment is over USD 50 million.

'Based on many years of experience of dealing with shipping lines and their customers, we are confident that we know what they need from their landside service providers. We are also confident that with the combination of local knowledge, attention to detail, long experience of transport and logistics activity - coupled with the determination to succeed in the vibrant Pakistani economy, both we and our partners can look forward to a successful venture'. Richards added.

Gulftainer recently clinched an important deal with the Government of The Comoros Islands that will see the firm operate, manage and upgrade the ports of Moroni and Mutsamudu for a 15 year period. This agreement is anticipated to enhance and promote the company's reputation as one of the leading companies in the field of port management and operations. The latest agreement with the Pak Shaheen Group is considered as an additional important step for Gulftainer in their aim of achieving further international expansion.