Key Takeaways
- Pakistan’s fish and fish preparations exports hit a record $568 million during fiscal year 2025-26.
- Frozen fish remains the leading export commodity, earning $105.09 million.
- The government aims to strengthen quality assurance systems and diversify export destinations.
Pakistan's seafood exports have achieved a significant milestone, reaching a record $568 million during fiscal year 2025-26, according to a statement by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry. The minister highlighted that this achievement reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening the blue economy and expanding seafood exports.
Frozen fish was the leading export commodity, generating $105.09 million in earnings, followed closely by frozen squid and cuttlefish at $103.71 million. Fish meal, shrimps, crabs, sardines, mackerels, flat fish, octopus, and minced fish meat (surimi) also contributed significantly to the export figures.
The seafood was primarily exported to countries such as China, Thailand, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Indonesia, and the United States. Despite disruptions in regional trade and maritime logistics due to evolving situations in the Gulf region, the resilience of the fisheries sector is evident.
Chaudhry emphasized that the record performance was achieved despite challenges such as international bans, overfishing, and raw material shortages. The export volume reached a historic high of 242,484 metric tons, marking a 20.5% increase from the previous year’s $406 million.
The minister also noted that while exports in fiscal year 2024-25 closed at $465.4 million, an 11.44% rise year-on-year, they fell short of the $500 million target set for that year. He reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening quality assurance systems and diversifying export destinations.
To recognize top performers in the fisheries sector, a performance review ceremony will be held soon. The prime minister is expected to present certificates of appreciation to the top 10 fisheries exporters.
