Islamabad: Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has emphasized the importance of developing a sustainable value chain for aquaculture and shrimp farming, aiming to transform it into an export-driven industry to enhance foreign exchange earnings.

According to Press Information Department, during the inaugural meeting of the Prime Minister’s Subcommittee on Aquaculture and Shrimp Value Chain, Chaudhry highlighted the need for coordinated efforts to boost production, enhance quality, and strengthen Pakistan’s competitiveness in global markets. The subcommittee intends to create an integrated system encompassing shrimp production, processing, quality testing, and international market access.

Pakistan achieved a record $568 million in seafood exports in the 2025-26 fiscal year, with shrimp accounting for $62 million. In the current financial year’s first quarter, seafood exports rose to $125.4 million. Despite these figures, a significant portion of exports still relies on wild-caught marine resources, prompting the need for organized and sustainable shrimp farming.

Chaudhry stressed the importance of high-quality seed, hatcheries, standardized feed, and effective disease-control systems to ensure sustainable production. He called for promoting domestic production of shrimp feed and seed to decrease import dependency and suggested considering concessions on duties and taxes to attract investment.

For expanded market access, including the United States, China, and the European Union, Pakistan must adhere to international standards in food safety, biosecurity, cold-chain management, processing, and traceability. Chaudhry pointed out the potential for expanding aquaculture and shrimp farming by utilizing Pakistan’s coastal areas, suitable land, and water resources.

He emphasized the need for reliable data on resources, production capacity, and farming practices to support effective planning and decision-making. Chaudhry also advocated for competitive electricity tariffs and the increased use of solar and hybrid energy systems to ensure affordable power supplies for shrimp farms.

Chaudhry concluded by stressing the importance of strong implementation mechanisms, coordinated departmental efforts, and modern farming practices to increase production, improve quality, and develop a competitive, export-oriented industry. The goal is to establish Pakistan as a sustainable shrimp farming hub capable of generating export earnings and foreign exchange.