Prequalification for Establishment of Multipurpose Cargo Terminal on BOT Basis at Port Qasim Karachi

Port Qasim Authority (PQA) invites Applications for prequalification from interested Applicants for the establishment of a Multipurpose Cargo Terminal on a Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) basis at Port Qasim, Karachi, Sindh. This strategic project aims to expand Port Qasim's capacity to handle break bulk and general cargo, addressing current congestion and future demand growth. The terminal will be developed in two phases: Phase I with an 8 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) handling capacity and Phase II expanding to 16 MTPA. The project includes design, financing, construction, operation, maintenance, and transfer of the terminal over a 30-year concession period. The terminal will feature a quay length of approximately 620 meters and a backup area of about 60 acres, designed to accommodate vessels up to 75,000 DWT with corresponding dredging and reclamation works. Key components include reclamation, dredging of berthing and turning basins, quay wall construction, cargo handling equipment, storage facilities, power and water supply systems, railway sidings, internal roads, and ancillary buildings. The Concessionaire will be responsible for all capital and maintenance dredging of the berthing basin and turning basin, as well as channel deepening and widening. The project requires compliance with environmental regulations including preparation and implementation of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan (EMMP), and Health and Safety Plan (HSP). Applicants may form consortia with a maximum of three members, with the Lead Member holding at least 51% equity. Eligibility criteria include technical experience in infrastructure and port terminal projects, financial soundness with minimum average annual turnover of USD 150 million, net worth of USD 75 million, and cash/funding lines of USD 10 million. Applications must be submitted in sealed envelopes physically to the Director (PSP), Port Qasim Authority, Ground Floor Administration Block, Head Office Building, Port Qasim, Karachi by 29 October 2026 at 12:00 hours. The prequalification process will be followed by a competitive bidding stage for shortlisted Applicants. Interested parties are encouraged to conduct independent assessments of the project site and conditions. The Prequalification Document and related clarifications can be obtained from PQA and PPRA websites. Items being procured: - Design, finance, build, operate, maintain and transfer of Multipurpose Cargo Terminal - Reclamation works and dredging of berthing and turning basins - Quay wall and jetty construction - Cargo handling equipment and storage facilities - Power generation and distribution - Railway sidings and connectivity - Internal roads and pavements - Ancillary buildings and infrastructure Applicants must meet PEC registration requirements where applicable, provide NTN and sales tax registration certificates, and submit affidavits confirming non-blacklisting and no conflict of interest. The project offers a significant opportunity for qualified entities to participate in a landmark infrastructure development at one of Pakistan's key ports. Bidders should ensure compliance with all submission requirements and deadlines. A practical tip for bidders: Thoroughly review the detailed technical and financial qualification criteria in the Prequalification Document and prepare comprehensive documentation to demonstrate compliance, including consortium agreements if applicable. Early site visits and independent market assessments are recommended to strengthen proposals.