Islamabad: Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhary announced efforts to develop a National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy aimed at unlocking the sector’s potential to generate up to $10 billion. The minister highlighted the initiative during a meeting to assess the performance and progress of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and its associated departments.

According to Press Information Department, Chaudhary emphasized the need to simplify procedures and enhance consultation with businesses and stakeholders to improve the ease of doing business in the maritime sector. He instructed the ministry and its departments to integrate stakeholder feedback into policies concerning sea-based economic activities.

The meeting also revealed the completion of a one-window operation, modeled on Khidmat Centres, designed to streamline government services for the business community through a single platform. This aims to reduce procedural delays and improve access for investors and maritime-sector businesses.

Chaudhary further pointed out the development of a 100-acre off-dock terminal at Gwadar Port, intended to boost trade with Central Asian Republics and enhance regional logistics connectivity. The terminal is expected to improve cargo handling and logistics links, solidifying Gwadar’s role as a trade gateway for landlocked Central Asian countries.

The meeting was briefed on a $3 million Global Environment Facility-supported project focused on marine biodiversity and coastal ecosystems protection. The project aims to conserve biodiversity and promote sustainable fishing practices. Chaudhary underscored the importance of balancing economic development with environmental protection, especially in conserving marine and coastal ecosystems.

He also called for a comprehensive plan to utilize port land recovered from encroachments productively, suggesting it could generate additional economic resources and bolster the country’s blue economy development. The minister urged authorities to ensure the timely completion of ongoing initiatives and projects while strengthening stakeholder coordination.