Pakistani Fish Exports to Russia Open Up, 16 Companies Granted Approval

Karachi (Commerce Desk) Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has announced a major development in the fisheries sector, stating that for the first time, exports of Pakistani fish and seafood to Russia have become possible. He said that sixteen Pakistani companies have been granted permission to export fish to the Russian market, creating new opportunities for the sector. According to the federal minister, access to the Russian market is expected to expand the reach of Pakistani exports to other countries within the Eurasian Economic Union, further boosting the seafood industry. He added that the relevant Marine Fisheries authority ensures compliance with international standards for exports, which is essential for competing in global markets. He stated that Pakistan’s annual seafood exports are likely to exceed 500 million dollars, while entry into the Russian market could increase this volume to around 800 million dollars. Junaid Anwar Chaudhry noted that initial exports to Russia are expected to generate approximately 300 million dollars in revenue, marking a positive development for the national economy. He further said that sea, air, and land routes will be used for exports, with land routes to Central Asian countries serving as a cost-effective trade corridor. According to him, there is significant demand for Pakistani fish in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, while the country’s ports are playing a key role in regional trade and warm-water fish can gain a competitive advantage in global markets.