Prime Minister’s Task Force Launches Major Initiative to Promote Shrimp Farming and Maritime Reforms
3,500 Acres of Barren Land to Be Converted into Shrimp Farms, Generating Billions in Foreign Exchange
Islamabad: The Prime Minister’s Task Force on Maritime Reforms has launched practical measures to expand aquaculture and exports in Pakistan.
The comprehensive plan, prepared under the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, aims to strengthen the national economy by promoting modern shrimp farming alongside traditional fisheries. The National Logistics Corporation (NLC) and other key institutions are playing a central role in the national initiative.
Modern Hatcheries and Research Centres to Be Established in Sindh, Balochistan and South Punjab
Under the project, coastal and saline lands in Sindh and Balochistan will be made productive through the development of modern shrimp-farming clusters.
During the initial phase, 3,500 acres of saline and barren land will be converted into high-quality shrimp farms.
Key Features and Economic Impact of the Project
Processing centres and feed mills are being established in cooperation with the private sector to increase investment and production. The project’s major targets include:
State-of-the-art multipurpose hatchery: The first modern hatchery for shrimp breeding will be established in Balochistan’s coastal region.
Research and development centre: A major research centre will be set up in South Punjab to study and promote modern fisheries techniques.
Development of skilled human resources: A total of 1,570 local people will receive advanced technical training under the project.
Milestone for economic and social development: The project is expected to produce 10,500 tonnes of export-quality aquatic products annually, generating approximately Rs7.8 billion in foreign exchange for the national economy.
In addition, more than 3,500 direct and indirect employment opportunities will be created in coastal areas, contributing significantly to the growth of the coastal economy.