Transport strike brings Pakistan’s supply chain under pressure, FPCCI warns
FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh calls for urgent action to resolve the ten-day strike and waive demurrage and detention charges on stranded containers.
FPCCI warns that Pakistan’s transport strike is disrupting freight movement, imports and exports.
KARACHI, August 14, 2026: Pakistan’s nationwide transport strike is putting growing pressure on the country’s trade and industrial activity, the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has warned.
FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh said the ten-day wheel-jam strike has brought much of the freight movement to a near standstill.
The disruption is affecting both imports and exports. Imported goods remain stuck at ports, while exporters face serious difficulties in moving shipments on time.
Ports and factories face disruption
The transport stoppage has slowed freight movement at major ports. Businesses are struggling to move containers from port facilities to their destinations.
The situation has also created shortages of raw materials for factories. Some industrial units have reduced production, while others have stopped operations.
Atif Ikram Sheikh said traders and industrialists are facing major financial losses. Businesses are also accumulating demurrage and detention charges on containers that cannot move.
The strike is also putting export orders at risk.
Pakistan’s investment credibility needs more than delegations and promises
Pakistani exporters may struggle to meet delivery deadlines. FPCCI warned that repeated delays could damage the reputation of Pakistani businesses in international markets.
FPCCI seeks urgent government action
The transport strike has become a serious concern for importers, exporters, traders and consumers, according to the federation.
FPCCI called on the government to address the transporters’ grievances and find an agreement without further delay.
Sheikh urged authorities to take practical steps to restore freight movement. He said keeping the supply chain active is essential for protecting businesses and the wider economy.
FPCCI also called for immediate financial relief for affected businesses.
The federation specifically asked the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, port authorities and terminal operators to waive demurrage and detention charges on stranded containers.
Business community seeks relief
The federation said businesses should not face additional costs for delays caused by the ongoing transport crisis.
A complete waiver of demurrage and detention charges could reduce some of the financial pressure on importers and exporters, FPCCI said.
The federation also stressed the need to restore normal freight operations as quickly as possible.
A prolonged disruption could cause wider economic losses. It could affect industrial production, imports, exports and the availability of goods in domestic markets.
FPCCI said an immediate resolution is necessary to prevent further damage to Pakistan’s economy and commercial reputation.
