KARACHI: Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has announced a major breakthrough in Pakistan’s fisheries sector, stating that for the first time, Pakistani fish and seafood exports to Russia have been approved.
According to the minister, 16 Pakistani companies have received permission to export fish to the Russian market, marking a significant step forward for the country’s seafood industry.
He added that access to Russia is expected to open doors to other member states of the Eurasian Economic Union, further expanding Pakistan’s export potential.
The minister highlighted that the Marine Fisheries Department ensures compliance with international quality standards, which is crucial for competing in global markets. Pakistan’s annual seafood exports are projected to exceed $500 million and could rise to $800 million following entry into the Russian market.
Initially, exports to Russia alone are expected to generate around $300 million in revenue, providing a positive boost to the national economy.
Junaid Anwar Chaudhry also noted that seafood exports will utilize sea, air, and land routes. Overland trade routes to Central Asia were described as cost-effective corridors, with strong demand for Pakistani fish in countries like Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan.
He emphasized that Pakistan’s ports are playing a key role in regional trade and that the country’s warm-water fish have a competitive advantage in international markets. Improved infrastructure and adherence to global standards are expected to significantly boost seafood exports in the coming years.
