Cargo from Iraq to Karachi

Many businesses and individuals think that shipping cargo from Iraq to Karachi is complicated. The reason for this thinking is due to the global politics and situations in Iraq over the decades. However, in reality, it is easy to send shipments between two countries. Businesses commonly use sea freight to transport goods between Iraq and Karachi. Ports like Umm Qasr and Fao (Al Faw) connect with Karachi Port and Bin Qasim Port. 

Beyond sea freight, air cargo is also an option. However, there are rules and regulations that need to be carefully met during these shipments. Alliance Shipping has been helping businesses move cargo from Iraq to Karachi without hassle. We take care of everything. Read this article to understand more about shipments between two countries.

Bilateral Trade between Iraq and Pakistan

Whenever you’re shipping from one country to another, it’s always a good idea to know a bit about the countries involved and their history. The understanding of trade histories between them helps. In our case, if we talk about Iraq and Pakistan, both are Muslim countries. Both countries have shared ups and downs with each other. So, the relationship hasn’t been smooth at all. 

However, in recent years, the relationship between Iraq and Pakistan has improved. It is evident from the trade that both companies are doing with each other. Over the past five years, Iraq’s exports to Pakistan have increased significantly, reaching $219 million in 2023 from just $49.6 million in 2018. Here’s a look at some of the trade flowing from Iraq to Pakistan:

• Iraq primarily exports petroleum gas to Pakistan, a crucial energy source.
• In 2023, Pakistan imported $7.56 billion worth of petroleum gas.
• Iraq contributed $202 million to Pakistan’s petroleum gas imports.
• Iraq also exports tropical fruits to Pakistan.
• In 2023, Pakistan imported $17.3 million worth of tropical fruits.
• Iraq’s share in tropical fruit exports to Pakistan was $1.36 million.

Both countries are developing nations. Iraq ranked 110th in the Economic Complexity Index (ECI), while Pakistan ranked 89th as per 2023 data. It means that both countries are still growing and looking for more opportunities to expand trade further. 

The increase in trade, especially in energy and food products, shows that both countries benefit from their partnership. If this trade continues to grow, it could help strengthen their economies and open doors for more business opportunities in the future. You will see more cargo from Iraq to Karachi frequently via sea and air routes. 

Seaports for Shipping Cargo From Iraq to Karachi

There are many seaports in Iraq. The Iraqi Government owns these ports. The General Company of Ports of Iraq is responsible for managing and operating these ports.  Three of the main seaports that are widely used for sending cargo from Iraq to Karachi include:

1. Umm Qasr Port, Iraq

The first on the list is the Umm Qasr Port, Iraq. It is one of the main and only deep-water ports, which is located on the Gulf Coast. The port contributes significantly to the economy of Iraq and plays a big role in the country’s exports and trade. Umm Qasr Port is divided into three sections: South Port, North Port, and Mid Port, each managed separately.

South Port, built in the 1940s, mainly provides storage facilities and has many berths to handle different types of cargo. North Port, established in the 1970s, is the busiest, featuring modern container yards and a railway connection. It has several terminals, including the Basra Gateway Terminal and the Gulftainer Terminal, which manage container and bulk shipments. Mid Port is a multipurpose facility handling various cargo types.

Overall, the Umm Qasr Port has over 20 berths and handles various types of cargo, including containers, bulk goods, and general cargo. The port also features a bank, a logistics depot, and a railway link to Baghdad for cost-effective transport. Cargo from Iraq to Karachi frequently comes from this port. 

2. Khor Al Zubair, Iraq

Khor Al Zubair Port is another port used for sending cargo from Iraq to Karachi. The port is located near Umm Qasr and is a key port to Iraq. Iraq, as we all know, is a country with abundant oil and petroleum products. Therefore, the products coming from Khor Al Zubair Port are mainly gas condensates. It also receives oil products, construction materials, electrical goods, and packaged food.

The port manages 400,000 tonnes of cargo and 1,440,000 tonnes of fuel oil annually and can accommodate ships up to 30,000 tonnes. In the past few years, the interest of Iraqi authorities in this port has increased due to its strategic location and facilities. They announced plans to convert it into an oil port, with six new berths under construction. The goal is to make this port the major export infrastructure for Iraqi oil. This will boost trade and economic growth in Iraq and Pakistan.

3. Grand Al Faw Port, Iraq

Lastly, you might have heard about the Grand Al Faw Port. The Iraqi government is spending a lot on this port. Their goal is to make this port one of the largest in the Middle East. To achieve this, massive expansions are happening in the port, including building new container terminals and berths. Located at the mouth of the Shatt Al Arab River, the project began in 2010, with the first phase completed.

The final phase includes building 100 berths, with completion targeted for 2028. The port is expected to handle 36 million tonnes of container cargo and 22 million tonnes of dry bulk cargo. With a 7 km dock and an 18-meter shore depth, it will accommodate the world’s largest ships, strengthening Iraq’s global maritime trade. However, the port has not yet been operationalized by Iraqi authorities. 

So, the alternative ports they have provided for shipping cargo from Iraq to Karachi include the following: 

• Abu Flous Port

• Al Basra Oil Terminal

• Khor Al Amaya Oil Terminal

• Port of Basra/ Al-Maqal Port

Cost breakdown for Sea Cargo from Iraq to Karachi

Transit Time via Sea Freight

Air Cargo Shipping from Iraq to Karachi

The fastest way to ship cargo anywhere in the world is by air, and it’s no different when sending cargo from Iraq to Karachi. With direct flights going smoothly between the two countries, you can choose the air option when required. If your shipment is urgent and you can’t wait weeks with the sea option, air freight becomes feasible. Your shipment will arrive at Jinnah International Airport in just 1 day.

Some of the advantages of air cargo shipping include the following:

Speed: As mentioned earlier, air shipping is the quickest way to send cargo. This means that you can get your goods delivered to their destination on time.

Efficiency: Air cargo shipping is also very efficient. With advanced tracking systems and modern technology, your goods can be monitored and transported most efficiently.

Global Reach: Air cargo shipping allows you to send your goods to almost any international destination. This means that you have access to a broader market for your products.

Safety: Airlines adhere to strict safety regulations, ensuring your cargo is handled carefully and arrives at its destination intact.

Cost breakdown for Air Cargo from Iraq to Karachi

Transit Time via Air Freight 

Things to Consider Before Shipping

Before shipping your cargo from Iraq to Karachi via air, there are some important things to consider:

Type of Goods: It’s important to determine what type of goods you are shipping and whether they are allowed to be transported via air. Some hazardous materials or perishable items may not be suitable for air shipping.

Size and Weight: Air shipping has certain limitations on the size and weight of the cargo. Make sure to check with your chosen airline for their specific restrictions.

Cost: Air cargo shipping can be more expensive compared to other modes of transportation. Consider this factor when deciding which option is best for your shipment.

Customs & Documentation

• Bill of Lading (BOL) – Required for sea shipments.

• Airway Bill (AWB) – Needed for air shipments.

• Commercial Invoice – Details the goods, value, and sender/receiver information.

• Packing List – Specifies item details, weight, and dimensions.

• Certificate of Origin – May be required to verify the origin of goods.

• Import Licenses – Certain products might require approval from Pakistani authorities.

• Customs Duties & Taxes – Pakistan Customs (FBR) applies tariffs based on HS codes.

Alliance Shipping – Your Reliable Shipping Partner

Alliance Shipping makes shipping cargo from Iraq to Karachi easy and stress-free. We handle everything for you, whether you need fast air freight or affordable sea freight. Our team plans the best routes to ensure your goods arrive on time. We also handle all customs paperwork, such as the Bill of Lading, invoices, and certificates of origin, so your shipment clears smoothly at Karachi Port.

We know Pakistan’s import rules well, helping you avoid delays and extra costs. With trusted carriers and customs services, we offer complete shipping solutions for any cargo—food, medicine, machinery, or general goods. We also provide cargo insurance to protect your shipment. Choose Alliance Shipping for reliable, cost-effective, and secure shipping from Iraq to Karachi. Your cargo from Iraq to Karachi is our priority.

For a personalized quote, contact us at +971 56 649 5103 or email manager.pk@theallianceshipping.com. Let our expertise guide your cargo from Iraq to Karachi.

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