Karachi: Vital ports and shipping sector in Pakistan is badly neglected and improving it would boost and change our whole economy, said Pasban Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman Altaf Shakoor on Sunday.Altaf Shakoor said that Pakistan with a vast coastline and big ports in Karachi and Gwadar lags behind in ports and shipping sector due to the wrong policies of the government. He said smaller nations like Denmark and Singapore are the world leaders in this sector because their governments have given due focus to this important sector.Giving an example of Denmark, he said Denmark is a global leader in the shipping industry. He said this is due to its strong maritime heritage, innovative approach, and strategic policies. He said that Denmark is home to world-class shipping companies like Maersk, DFDS, TORM, and Norden. It has a highly developed maritime ecosystem, including shipbuilders, tech firms, and research institutions. It leads in alternative fuels and wind propulsion. It is a pioneer in smart shipping solutions like AI, block chain for logistics.He said that all this is due to the governments supportive tax policies and incentives for shipping companies that attract global firms, and heavy investment in green transition through public private partnerships. This country also offers world class maritime education.About Singapore, Altaf Shakoor said that this small nation rules as the world's busiest transshipment hub and a maritime services powerhouse. He said this country offers the best business-friendly policies and tax incentives. There is no capital gains tax, and low corporate taxes attract 4,000+ maritime firms. Its free trade policies make it a global maritime finance hub. He said Singapore also leads in digital and smart port leadership. Its Tuas Port (fully automated by 2040) will be the largest fully automated terminal in the world. It uses AI, blockchain and drone inspections for efficiency.He said Pakistan can also transform its ports into world-class hubs, leveraging global best practices and its strategic advantages.He said outdated equipment, shallow drafts and low efficiency are our main issues. We can deepen our channels, install AI-powered cranes, automated gates, and blockchain cargo tracking. He said we need specialized terminals like LNG terminals, and dedicated CPEC rail-linked terminals like China's Yangshan Port.He said we should boost transshipment capabilities by offeringincentives and zero duties like Dubai. He said we should develop marine engineering universities also and keep the port districts like Keamari free from pollution, traffic jams and encroachments.He said the ports of Karachi and Gwadar could be top 20 global ports if the government gives them proper focus and attention.