ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s seafood exports reached USD 489.2 million in the fiscal year 2024–25, showing a 20.5 percent increase from USD 406 million in the previous year, according to the Marine Fisheries Department’s export progress report released on Monday.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, attributed the increase to better regulatory oversight, export diversification, and continued international demand. Export volumes also rose by 19.8 percent to 242,484 metric tons, up from 202,400 metric tons in the previous fiscal year.
China remained the top importer of Pakistan’s seafood, buying over 99,238 metric tons worth USD 186 million. Thailand followed with imports worth USD 105.7 million. Other destinations included the United Arab Emirates, Malaysia, Japan, South Korea, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
Exports to the European Union rose by 44.4 percent to USD 13 million. The minister said this increase shows a focus on supplying high-value seafood products to EU markets, which are influenced by quality and sustainability standards.
The product breakdown in the report showed fish meal leading with 79,090 metric tons valued at USD 160 million. Frozen fish exports reached USD 103.11 million, followed by shrimps at USD 61.4 million, crabs at USD 29.68 million, and mackerels at USD 23 million. Other species exported included sole, jellyfish, skates, and eels.
Non-tax revenue from the fisheries sector rose by 131.68 percent, from PKR 101 million in FY 2023–24 to PKR 234 million in FY 2024–25. The minister said this increase was due to stronger regulatory oversight and more efficient collection of fees.
Chaudhry said the government’s efforts to improve infrastructure, follow international standards, and promote responsible fishing practices have contributed to the sector’s performance. He added that steps taken to upgrade processing facilities and reach new markets would help Pakistan stay competitive.
The minister said the government plans to keep supporting the sector through better export infrastructure, improved resource management, and exploring new markets. He said the gains in both volume and value in FY 2024–25 show Pakistan’s growing capacity to meet global seafood demand through responsible practices.
