PNSC Expands Fleet With Addition of Aframax Tanker MT Karachi
The Pakistan National Shipping Corporation has strengthened its maritime capabilities with the induction of a new Aframax tanker into its managed fleet. The development was disclosed through a formal stock filing submitted to the Pakistan Stock Exchange, reflecting the corporation’s continued focus on expanding capacity in the oil transportation segment.
According to the filing, the newly inducted vessel has been named MT Karachi and carries a deadweight tonnage of 109,990 tons. The tanker has been brought into the fleet through PNSC’s wholly owned subsidiary, Karachi Shipping (Private) Limited, underscoring the group’s strategy of leveraging its subsidiaries for operational growth.
The disclosure was made in compliance with Section 96 of the Securities Act, 2015, along with Clause 5.6.1(a) of the PSX Rule Book. Officials noted that this update follows an earlier disclosure shared in October 2025, signaling transparency in line with regulatory requirements and investor communication standards.
Industry observers say the induction of an Aframax tanker is a strategic move, as vessels of this class are widely used for transporting crude oil and refined petroleum products across regional and international routes. With global energy trade remaining active, the addition is expected to enhance PNSC’s ability to meet chartering demand and improve operational flexibility.
The expansion of the tanker fleet is also seen as a positive step toward strengthening Pakistan’s shipping infrastructure. By increasing its carrying capacity, PNSC can reduce reliance on foreign carriers for energy imports, which is often highlighted as a key objective for improving balance-of-payments efficiency.
PNSC is primarily engaged in shipping-related activities, including the chartering of vessels, transportation of cargo, and the provision of commercial, technical, administrative, and financial services. The corporation also supports its subsidiaries and third parties across various aspects of maritime operations, making it a central player in Pakistan’s shipping and logistics sector.
In addition to its core shipping business, the corporation manages a portfolio of properties that are rented out under lease arrangements. This diversified approach helps support revenue streams while maintaining focus on its primary maritime mandate.
Analysts believe that fleet expansion initiatives such as the induction of MT Karachi reflect PNSC’s long-term growth strategy and its intent to modernize and scale operations. As global shipping markets evolve, such investments are expected to position the corporation more competitively while contributing to national trade and energy security objectives.
