LAHORE: The Pakistan Aquaculture & Fisheries Summit 2026 brought together experts, researchers, government officials, farmers and business leaders to discuss the future of Pakistan’s aquaculture and fisheries sector.
Organised by the National Alliance for Safe Food (NAFS), the summit was held on September 15 at Faletti’s Hotel in Lahore. The event focused on developing a safe, sustainable and export-ready aquaculture sector while improving food security and supporting the country’s blue economy.
Secretary Aquaculture and Fisheries Punjab Rana Muhammad Saleem Afzal attended the summit as chief guest. Discussions covered modern fish and shrimp farming, sustainable production, food safety, infrastructure, investment and opportunities to expand seafood exports.
Rana Owais Khan, CEO of NAFS, Zaki Aijaz, Vice President of FPCCI, Mian Abdul Hannan, Chairman of the All Pakistan Meat Exporters and Processors Association, and Sardar Fahad Khan, Patron-in-Chief of NAFS, were among the speakers during the opening session.
Rana Muhammad Saleem Afzal highlighted Punjab’s efforts to develop the aquaculture sector and strengthen the fish and shrimp value chain. He also discussed the role of modern farming practices, infrastructure and public-private cooperation in expanding the sector.
The summit also featured discussions on sustainable farming and export development, with contributions from Prof. Dr. Hamda Azmat of the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Saad Yousuf, COO of Dhabeji Aqua Foods, and Prof. Dr. Ghazala Jabeen of Lahore College for Women University.
A number of organisations and industry representatives also showcased technologies and solutions related to aquaculture and fisheries. The event provided an opportunity for farmers, researchers, investors, exporters and policymakers to exchange ideas on improving the sector.
The summit highlighted the growing importance of sustainable aquaculture in strengthening food security, creating economic opportunities and supporting responsible use of water and aquatic resources.
NAFS said the event aimed to promote collaboration and new opportunities for a safe, sustainable, nutritious and export-ready aquaculture sector in Pakistan.
