Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs has said that unregulated practices within the tuna sector, which historically kept over 45,000 tonnes of catches annually out of the formal economy, are coming under scrutiny as the country secured a historic quota from the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission, a significant step towards formalizing the industry and promoting sustainable resource management.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry reaffirmed the government”s commitment to promoting sustainable fisheries, protecting marine biodiversity, and ensuring economic growth through responsible tuna harvesting on World Tuna Day. He emphasised tuna”s critical role in global food security, livelihoods, and economic stability, calling for collective action from governments, industries, and consumers to advance conservation efforts.
World Tuna Day, established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2016, underscores the global imperative to combat overfishing, foster sustainable practices, and safeguard tuna stocks for future generations. Pakistan is actively aligning its fisheries sector with international conservation standards to meet these global challenges.
The newly acquired quota from the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission totals 25,000 metric tonnes, comprising 15,000 tonnes of yellowfin tuna and 10,000 tonnes of skipjack. This represents a significant milestone in bringing previously informal economic activities into regulated frameworks.
The government is tackling these unregulated practices through the implementation of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy. This comprehensive policy aims to streamline regulations, enhance revenues, and ensure adherence to international climate and conservation commitments.
Pakistan”s increasing influence in global fisheries governance was further underscored by the election of a senior Ministry of Maritime Affairs official as Chair of the IOTC’s Standing Committee on Administration and Finance. This marks a notable achievement in the nation”s 28-year engagement with international tuna management.
Furthermore, the country is progressively phasing out detrimental fishing methods such as gillnetting and trawling. These are being replaced with selective longlining techniques designed to reduce bycatch and protect marine ecosystems. With support from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), local fishers are being equipped with modern tools to improve catch quality and value.
Reforms in the export sector have already led to a substantial increase in certification revenues. Concurrently, infrastructure upgrades at key fisheries harbours, including Korangi, are underway to bolster Pakistan’s export capacity, particularly for lucrative European markets.
Minister Chaudhry concluded by stating that Pakistan’s tuna sector stands at a critical juncture, with sustainable quotas, ongoing policy reforms, and robust international partnerships paving the way for long-term economic prosperity, environmental protection, and increased foreign exchange earnings.