Relevance and Economic Contribution
A large portion of Pakistan’s economy is derived from the fishing business. It is essential for producing income from exports, guaranteeing food security, and creating jobs. 1.8 million people are impacted by the sector both directly and indirectly. With their significant export revenue, fisheries make up a significant portion of the country’s GDP—roughly 1%.
Processing in fishery
Marine fish are marketed in various forms, with 65-70% of total production used for human
consumption. Processing involves mechanical and non-mechanical methods, with 27 plants in Pakistan. Frozen and canned products are mostly exported, with the majority used for poultry feed or fish feed. Fishmeal is primarily used in the country for poultry feed or fish feed production.
The major fish harbours of Pakistan are:
- Karachi Fish market handles about 90% of fish and seafood catch in Pakistan and 95% of fish and seafood exports from Pakistan.
- Karachi Fisheries Harbour is being operated by the Provincial Government of Sindh.
- Korangi Fish Harbour is being managed by the Federal Ministry of Ports & Shipping.
- Pasni Fish Harbour being operated by the Provincial Government of Balochistan.
- Gwadar Fish Harbour being operated by the Federal Ministry of Communication.
Principal Products of Fish and Seafood
- Ribbon Fish
- Pomfret
- Shrimp
- Prawns
- Lobsters
- Indian Mackerel
Fishing Methods Used in Pakistan
- Traditional gillnetting and trawling techniques to modern ones.
Wooden boats and rudimentary nets are used by small-scale artisans.
• High-tech equipment and automated boats are used by large commercial companies.
Issues facing the fishing sector
The primary issues that Pakistan’s fishing sector is dealing with are:
Pakistan’s seashore is primarily free of pollution in the Karachi region. Pollution from several sources is having a serious effect on the fish fishery in Karachi.
The fishing sector is suffering greatly as a result of ship oil spills and home and industrial trash.
Pakistan lacks the financial resources to expand the fishing sector in a way that is consistent with current standards. Mangroves, which serve as spawning sites for fish and shrimp, cannot thrive in contaminated waters.
The majority of fishing in Pakistan is done using traditional methods, which harms productivity.
