Pakistan plans fisheries policy to unlock $10 billion maritime potential

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhary has said the government is working on a comprehensive National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy aimed at unlocking the country's fisheries potential and generating up to $10 billion

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhary has said the government is working on a comprehensive National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy aimed at unlocking the country’s fisheries potential and generating up to $10 billion through appropriate policy measures and sectoral reforms.

The minister made these remarks while chairing a meeting held to assess the performance, progress and achievements of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and its affiliated departments.

During the meeting, Chaudhary emphasised the need to create a more business-friendly environment in Pakistan’s maritime sector. He called for the simplification of procedures, reduction of unnecessary administrative hurdles and greater engagement with private-sector stakeholders.

He directed the ministry and its attached departments to take practical recommendations from businesses and other stakeholders into account while preparing policies and implementing initiatives linked to maritime economic activities.

One-window facility for maritime businesses

The meeting was informed that preparations for establishing a one-window operation, modelled on the Khidmat Centres, had been completed.

The proposed facility is expected to bring multiple government services under a single platform, allowing businesses and investors to access relevant services without having to approach different departments separately.

Officials said the initiative could help reduce delays, simplify regulatory procedures and improve the overall ease of doing business for companies operating in the maritime sector.

The minister stressed that efficient public services and coordinated institutional mechanisms were essential for attracting investment and encouraging private-sector participation in the country’s blue economy.

Gwadar terminal to strengthen regional trade

The minister also reviewed progress on the development of a 100-acre off-dock terminal at Gwadar Port, describing the project as an important step toward strengthening Pakistan’s regional trade and logistics infrastructure.

According to the meeting, the terminal is expected to facilitate trade with the Central Asian Republics (CARs) by improving cargo handling and providing stronger logistics connections.

Given the landlocked nature of several Central Asian economies, Pakistan’s ports can provide an important route for regional trade. The development of additional logistics infrastructure at Gwadar could therefore strengthen the port’s role as a gateway connecting these markets with international trade routes.

Focus on marine biodiversity

The meeting also discussed a $3 million project supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) for the protection of marine biodiversity and coastal ecosystems.

The initiative focuses on conserving marine resources while encouraging environmentally responsible fishing practices. It is intended to support the sustainable management of Pakistan’s coastal and marine resources.

Chaudhary stressed that efforts to expand economic activity in the maritime sector must be accompanied by strong environmental safeguards.

He said the development of fisheries, aquaculture, ports and other sea-based industries should not come at the expense of marine ecosystems and coastal biodiversity.

Plan sought for recovered port land

The minister further directed officials to prepare a comprehensive strategy for the productive use of port land recovered from encroachments.

He observed that such land could be utilised for productive economic activities, potentially generating additional revenue while supporting development initiatives linked to Pakistan’s blue economy.

The meeting also reviewed the status of various ongoing projects and initiatives under the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and its attached organisations.

Chaudhary instructed the relevant authorities to accelerate work on projects and ensure their completion within निर्धारित timelines. He also called for stronger coordination among government departments and other stakeholders to remove bottlenecks and improve implementation.