Benchmarking Green Port Competitiveness: Mixed-Methods Evidence from PQA, KPT, and International Peers

Abstract

This paper examines whether sustainability in ports should be interpreted as a cost burden or a source of competitive advantage, with particular emphasis on Port Qasim Authority (PQA) and Karachi Port Trust (KPT). Using a mixed-method desk-based research design, the study combines peer-reviewed literature published between 2017 and 2026 with official port authority publications, international institutional reports, and selected industry sources. The analysis integrates qualitative thematic synthesis with descriptive comparison of publicly available performance indicators, including throughput, container volumes, vessel traffic, disclosed investments, and reported sustainability initiatives. The findings show that sustainability is initially experienced by ports as compliance and capital cost, especially where investment is required in pollution control, effluent treatment, electrification, digital systems, or clean-fuel readiness. However, the evidence also shows that sustainability can enhance competitiveness when it reduces energy and delay costs, improves regulatory preparedness, strengthens stakeholder legitimacy, attracts cargo and investment, and supports resilient port-hinterland systems. International examples from Rotterdam, Antwerp-Bruges, Los Angeles, Singapore, and Tianjin Port demonstrate that ambitious decarbonisation and operational competitiveness are not mutually exclusive. For PQA and KPT, sustainability is best described as an emerging strategic capability. PQA’s climate-resilience framing, biodiversity platform, mangrove stewardship, and environmental infrastructure planning provide a credible base for green-port positioning. KPT’s solarisation, marine-pollution controls, planned wastewater treatment, and container-oriented operating base similarly indicate movement toward greener operations. Both ports can strengthen the commercial value of these initiatives through clearer public disclosure of emissions baselines, project payback, and outcome-linked key performance indicators.