MODERNISING PAKISTAN’S SHIPPING REGULATIONS AND TRADE FACILITATION AUTHORITIES UNDER CONVENTION ON THE FACILITATION OF INTERNATIONAL MARITIME TRAFFIC 1965

Abstract

A developing maritime economy like Pakistan can greatly benefit from the comprehensive framework of standards, guidelines, and recommended practices provided by the modern and comprehensive provisions of the Convention on the Facilitation of International
Maritime Traffic 1965 (FALC). This study’s objective is to analyse the FALC’s legal provisions and Pakistan's domestic maritime law in relation to ship and port juncture activities in order to make recommendations for updating the country's current statutory rules and regulations in line with international standards, conventions and practices. According to the study, the FALC has significantly facilitated international maritime traffic through the harmonisation and standardisation of its port and shipping procedures. Following the FALC's and the facilitation committee's approved guidelines will improve Pakistan's overall competitive standing as an emerging regional shipping hub, especially under the long term plan for China Pakistan Economic Corridor. Furthermore, it will also allow Pakistan to sustainably transform into a significant maritime transit trade centre in the Western Indian Ocean Region.