The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) on Wednesday warned that if the ongoing blockade of Sindh’s National Highway is not resolved immediately, it could trigger widespread operational shutdowns, job losses, and a costly, prolonged recovery.
In a statement, the OICCI noted that the six-day blockade has brought local trade and industrial activity to a grinding halt, paralyzing supply chains and sending shockwaves through the national economy. It stressed that businesses were reeling from crippling financial losses as their shipments remained stranded and a sea of containers continued to pile up, turning vital trade routes into virtual dead zones.
According to the OICCI, over 3,500 vehicles are stranded near Sukkur, many carrying export consignments, perishable items, and critical industrial inputs. “The complete halt in goods movement is already affecting market supplies, with shortages looming,” it warned.
Noting the disruption has fractured essential supply chain linkages, it stressed that industries nationwide were facing shutdown risks due to raw materials stuck at Karachi Port. Additionally, it said, exporters are missing delivery deadlines, further damaging Pakistan’s credibility as a reliable trading partner and threatening future contracts.
“The OICCI is confident that the authorities concerned in Sindh and the Government of Pakistan are aware of the criticality of the issue and will act swiftly to restore the flow of goods,” it said. “Uninterrupted trade is vital to promote local trade and safeguard export competitiveness and economic stability,” it added.