Islamabad (Commerce Desk): Under the Prime Minister’s Task Force for Maritime Reforms, various initiatives are underway to develop Pakistan’s fisheries and aquaculture sectors, with the aim of increasing exports and creating new employment opportunities.
According to details, the task force is particularly focusing on promoting shrimp farming, which is expected to expand the aquaculture sector and significantly improve the country’s exports.
Officials stated that fisheries are an important source of livelihood for millions of people in Pakistan, while the sector has vast potential for growth. Promoting shrimp farming can help strengthen the national economy and increase Pakistan’s share in the global market.
According to the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, work is underway on a comprehensive plan to promote commercial fisheries on a limited scale, with various institutions, including the National Logistics Cell (NLC), playing an important role.
Under the plan, shrimp farming clusters are being established on saline lands in Sindh, Balochistan, and other provinces, while 3,500 acres of land are planned to be converted into shrimp farms. In addition, a modern multi-purpose hatchery equipped with advanced facilities will be established in the coastal areas of Balochistan.
Furthermore, a research and development center will be established in South Punjab, along with training for 1,570 individuals to develop a skilled workforce for the sector.
Officials said that with the cooperation of the private sector, shrimp hatcheries, feed production factories, and processing centers will also be established, which will increase investment and employment opportunities in the aquaculture sector.