Pakistan’s seafood shipments reached a record USD 489.2 million in the fiscal year 2024-25, a significant 20.5% jump from the USD 406 million recorded the previous year, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced on Monday. The minister, praising the Marine Fisheries Department”s yearly export report, credited the impressive outcome to stronger regulations, wider export destinations, and consistent global demand.
China remained the largest buyer, importing over 99,238 metric tons worth USD 186 million. Thailand secured the second spot with imports totaling USD 105.7 million. Other important buyers included the UAE, Malaysia, Japan, South Korea, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, and Indonesia, demonstrating Pakistan’s broad international reach.
Export quantities also saw a rise, increasing by 19.8% to 242,484 metric tons, compared to 202,400 metric tons in FY 2023-24. This volume expansion indicates the industry’s growing production capabilities and stronger global market presence, Minister Chaudhry explained.
Shipments to the European Union witnessed a remarkable 44.4% increase, reaching USD 13 million. This signifies Pakistan’s strategic emphasis on premium, high-value seafood products catering to EU tastes, where quality and sustainability are increasingly important.
Fish meal led the product categories, with 79,090 metric tons worth USD 160 million, followed by frozen fish (USD 103.11 million), shrimp (USD 61.4 million), crab (USD 29.68 million), and mackerel (USD 23 million). Other shipped varieties included sole, jellyfish, skates, and eels.
Non-tax revenue from the fisheries industry also significantly increased, rising by 131.68%, from PKR 101 million in FY 2023-24 to PKR 234 million in FY 2024-25. This improvement reflects better regulatory supervision and more effective fee collection methods, the minister noted.
“This positive trajectory is not only about increasing trade numbers; it”s also about better administration and reinforced organizations,” Minister Chaudhry stated. “Our regulatory changes and eco-friendly methods are yielding real outcomes.’
Government investments in facilities, adherence to global benchmarks, and responsible fishing practices are crucial to this development. Modernizing processing plants and exploring new markets will further enhance Pakistan’s global competitiveness.
Minister Chaudhry confirmed the government”s dedication to building on this progress. Future strategies include improving export infrastructure, promoting sustainable resource utilization, and exploring new markets to solidify Pakistan’s role in global seafood trade.
The fiscal year 2024-25 represents a milestone for Pakistan’s fisheries industry, with substantial gains in both quantity and revenue. These achievements bolster the national economy and demonstrate Pakistan’s preparedness to meet evolving global needs through sustainable and quality-focused methods.