Pakistan has achieved a record milestone in its seafood exports during fiscal year 2025-26. Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced that the country exported fish and fish products worth $568 million, marking the highest annual export value for the sector.
The minister said the achievement reflects the government’s efforts to strengthen the blue economy and increase seafood exports. He added that improving food safety, maintaining quality standards, and expanding access to international markets played a key role in this success.
According to the minister, frozen fish remained Pakistan’s top export product. It generated $105.09 million during the fiscal year. Frozen squid and cuttlefish followed closely with exports worth $103.71 million.
Fish meal ranked third, bringing in $83.12 million. Shrimp exports reached $62.14 million, while crab exports totaled $36.89 million. Sardines contributed $30.62 million, followed by mackerels at $22.67 million.
Other major export products included flatfish, which earned $17.24 million, octopus with $15.18 million, and minced fish meat, also known as surimi, which generated $14.63 million.
Pakistan’s seafood products were exported to several international markets. Major destinations included China, Thailand, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Indonesia, and the United States.
The minister said this record performance was achieved despite regional trade disruptions and challenges in maritime logistics. He noted that changing conditions in the Gulf region created difficulties for exporters. However, Pakistan’s fisheries sector remained resilient and continued to meet international demand.
Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry praised the efforts of Dr. Mansoor Ali Wassan and the Marine Fisheries Department. He said the department helped maintain international food safety standards, improved regulatory oversight, and supported exporters in accessing global markets.
The minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to further developing the fisheries industry. He said authorities will continue to strengthen quality assurance systems, promote value-added products, diversify export destinations, and improve the global competitiveness of Pakistan’s seafood sector.
He announced that a performance review ceremony will be held soon to recognize the country’s top 10 fisheries exporters. The prime minister is expected to present certificates of appreciation to the leading exporters for their outstanding contribution.
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The minister also congratulated the Marine Fisheries Department, the Pakistan Fisheries Exporters Association, fish processors, exporters, and other stakeholders. He said their combined efforts helped Pakistan achieve a record year for seafood exports and strengthened the country’s position in international markets.
