Gadani Ship Recycling Operations Resume as Pakistan Upgrades Maritime Industry to Global Standards
Pakistan’s ship recycling industry has entered a new phase as operations have resumed at the Gadani Ship Breaking Yard, with seven vessels arriving for dismantling in a significant development for the country’s maritime and industrial sectors.
The revival of ship recycling activities is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s maritime economy, generate employment opportunities, increase the supply of recycled steel, and support the country’s broader blue economy ambitions.
According to an official statement, the resumption of operations was made possible through the coordinated efforts of the National Logistics Corporation (NLC), a member of the Maritime Task Force, along with other relevant government agencies working to revive one of South Asia’s key ship recycling hubs.
The federal government has introduced a series of reforms aimed at modernising Pakistan’s ship recycling industry and aligning it with internationally recognised environmental and safety standards. As part of these initiatives, the ship recycling sector has been granted formal industrial status to encourage investment, improve competitiveness, and promote sustainable industrial growth.
Authorities said the ongoing modernisation programme includes upgrading Gadani’s ship recycling infrastructure to meet the requirements of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, reinforcing Pakistan’s commitment to responsible and environmentally sound ship dismantling practices.
Officials confirmed that nine of Gadani’s 16 ship recycling yards have already been upgraded in accordance with the Hong Kong Convention, while the remaining seven yards are currently undergoing inspection and approval before becoming fully operational.
To further strengthen environmental compliance, the government also plans to establish a modern Treatment, Storage and Disposal (TSD) facility at Gadani. The proposed facility will ensure the safe management and disposal of hazardous waste generated during ship recycling operations, supporting cleaner and more sustainable maritime industrial practices.
The latest developments are expected to enhance Pakistan’s position in the global ship recycling market while improving environmental safeguards and attracting future investment into the country’s maritime infrastructure.
