Pakistan’s exports of fish and fisheries products crossed $500 million mark for first time in current fiscal year with target achieved 46 days before year-end. Maritime Affairs Minister Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced milestone calling it landmark achievement for maritime sector and blue economy.
The minister attributed achievement to government reforms, improved facilitation for exporters, and expansion into new international markets. Coordinated efforts by Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Marine Fisheries Department, and other stakeholders raised quality standards, modernized fisheries sector, and improved international market access. Marine fisheries sector posted strong growth in first half of fiscal 2025-26 with exports reaching 122,629 metric tonnes valued at $253.24 million between July and December 2025.
Pakistani fish and seafood gained approval to enter Russian market for first time with 16 Pakistani companies authorized to export seafood to Russia. Minister stated access to Russia could pave way into other Eurasian Economic Union markets with annual seafood exports projected to climb to $800 million. Initial exports to Russia alone projected to reach about $300 million according to minister statements.
Monthly export momentum peaked at $56.42 million in November and $55 million in December supported by seasonal demand and logistical improvements. Non-tax revenue from fisheries sector increased to Rs127.7 million from Rs118 million year earlier. Pakistan secured four-year extension for seafood exports to United States after National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration classified Pakistani fisheries as comparable under Marine Mammal Protection Act.
Government will establish 100-acre seafood processing and export zone at Korangi Fisheries Harbour Authority estimated at $60-80 million. Project will house 20-25 medium and large processing units for fish, shrimp, and cephalopods along with value-addition and export-grade packaging facilities.
