ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has constituted a four-member committee to finalize a performance-based fish export incentive scheme aimed at boosting Pakistan’s seafood exports while maintaining the existing tax regime.
Chairing a high-level meeting, the minister said the proposed incentive programme would reward incremental export growth without introducing changes to the current taxation structure. He said the initiative is designed to improve the competitiveness of Pakistan’s seafood industry, attract greater investment, and enhance the country’s export potential.
“This is the right time to attract businesses towards Pakistan’s fisheries sector,” the minister said, adding that stronger incentives and closer collaboration with exporters would help increase seafood exports and strengthen the sector’s contribution to the national economy.
The committee will be headed by Fisheries Development Commissioner Dr. Muhammad Hafeez-ur-Rehman. Other members include Korangi Fish Harbour Authority Director General Dr. Shahid, Marine Fisheries Department Director General Dr. Mansoor Wasan, and Assistant Commissioner Fisheries Muhammad Farhan Khan.
The committee has been directed to review the proposed incentive mechanism and submit its recommendations to the minister within one week. It will also prepare proposals for national awards to recognize outstanding fish exporters and consult industry stakeholders before finalizing the framework.
During the meeting, Marine Fisheries Department Director General Dr. Mansoor Wasan emphasized that targeted incentives, combined with stronger coordination between the government and exporters, could significantly enhance the global competitiveness of Pakistan’s seafood industry.
Highlighting the sector’s economic importance, the minister said Pakistan’s seafood exports reached $568 million during FY2025-26, underscoring the fisheries industry’s growing role in generating foreign exchange and creating employment opportunities.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding seafood exports by improving quality standards, encouraging value addition, and strengthening Pakistan’s position in international seafood markets through targeted incentives and effective public-private collaboration.
The minister also instructed the committee to engage exporters, seafood processors, and other stakeholders to develop practical recommendations aimed at increasing exports, promoting value-added products, and unlocking the full potential of Pakistan’s fisheries sector.
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