Gulftainer sets up logistics JV in Pakistan

Gulftainer operates and manages the container terminals of Sharjah and Khorfakkan and has 30 years experience in trucking and logistics. The Pak Shaheen group was established in 1946 and is one of the most experienced shipping agencies in Pakistan. The group formed MTI (Multi-Modal Transport International) in 1980, but has mainly remained in the role of a freight forwarder and transport broker. However, with Gulftainer as a partner, it intends to become the largest transport and logistics company in Pakistan, with fully owned equipment and facilities.

An initial US$1m investment to procure 22 vehicles and trailers has already been undertaken, and the company aims eventually to build a fleet of over 100 trucks, fitted with the latest GPS tracking systems. These will be supplemented by three new logistics centres with fully comprehensive IT-controlled bonded container and warehouse facilities. Future development plans include dedicated reefer parks and cold stores. In total, the estimated investment amounts to over US$50m.

Gulftainer general manager Peter Richards and Yusuf Farrukh, CEO of Pak Shaheen Group, jointly commented: “The economic environment in Pakistan has improved dramatically in recent years and with this expansion have come much greater import and export volumes through Karachi’s terminals. Our new joint venture aims to provide improved transport alternatives on which inland customers in Pakistan can rely.”