Karachi: The Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, has announced a strategic initiative to upgrade the Korangi Fisheries Harbour Authority (KoFHA) to international standards. This move aims to enhance Pakistan’s seafood trade and strengthen the country’s blue economy.

In a meeting held in Islamabad with Dr. Shahid Mirza, the Managing Director of KoFHA, the Minister emphasized the urgent need for infrastructure improvements at the Korangi Fisheries Harbour. The upgrades are intended to align the facility with global benchmarks for seafood processing, handling, and export.

Korangi Fisheries Harbour, a vital component of Karachi’s maritime infrastructure, plays a significant role in boosting the nation’s seafood trade. The Minister highlighted that modernization is crucial not just for enhancing export quality but also for improving the working conditions of the local fishing community.

“The global seafood market demands the highest quality standards,” said Minister Chaudhry. “To compete internationally, we must invest in and accelerate the modernization of our key fisheries infrastructure.”

Dr. Mirza assured the Minister of KoFHA’s commitment to transforming the harbour into a state-of-the-art facility that meets international standards of hygiene, safety, and quality. He expressed gratitude for the Minister’s support and vision for KoFHA’s future.

The Minister also stressed the importance of empowering the local business community, particularly fishermen, who are integral to the maritime economy. He directed KoFHA to develop initiatives that provide fishermen with better access to cold storage, hygienic auction halls, modern processing units, and financial literacy programs.

“Our fishermen must be brought into the fold of economic progress,” added the Minister. “It’s not just about exports; it’s about improving livelihoods.”

The modernization of Korangi Fisheries Harbour is part of a broader national strategy to revamp the maritime and fisheries sectors in line with the government’s blue economy policy. The goal is to increase seafood exports, attract foreign investment, and create job opportunities in coastal communities.

Dr. Mirza pledged that KoFHA would take immediate steps to align with the Minister’s directives and work closely with stakeholders to deliver tangible results.