Karachi

A nine-day strike by cargo transporters has badly disrupted operations at Karachi port, raising serious concerns among business leaders that economic activity in the city and across Sindh could come to a halt. Industries are facing shortages of raw materials, while finished goods remain stuck.

Business groups have urged the Sindh government to step in and resolve the issue, warning that prolonged disruption is damaging production and supply chains. In a letter to the Sindh chief minister, Abdul Aleem, Secretary General of the Overseas Investors Chambers of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) said the situation had become alarming for industry and trade. He noted that while limited relief was seen in Punjab after raising the matter with provincial authorities, conditions in Sindh and at Karachi port remain unchanged.

OICCI members reported that trucks from Punjab are still unable to reach Karachi, severely affecting port movement. Several major manufacturing units are close to shutting down, with at least one reporting that production had already stopped. Others expect closures within days as raw materials fail to arrive and finished goods remain stranded on highways.

The Pakistan Vanaspati Manufacturers Association said supplies of edible oil, ghee and other essential items have been disrupted. Its chairman warned that stopping raw material flows could damage the entire production cycle and hurt the broader economy. Imported consignments are also stuck at ports, increasing financial losses due to demurrage and detention charges.

The Pakistan Association of Large Steel Producers said the strike is having a devastating impact on industry and could lead to job losses and wage cuts. Industry leaders have called on federal and provincial governments to hold talks with transporters and review the Motor Vehicle Ordinance 2025.

Transporters have warned that goods and passenger movement will remain suspended unless the disputed provisions of the ordinance are withdrawn or revised.