Govt sets up panel to boost seafood exports

August 07, 2026 (MLN): The government has constituted a four-member committee to finalize a performance-based fish export incentive scheme designed to boost seafood exports without altering the existing tax regime.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, while chairing a meeting on the matter, said the proposed scheme would reward incremental export growth while retaining the current tax structure, thereby improving the competitiveness of the seafood industry and attracting investment.

The committee is headed by Fisheries Development Commissioner Dr Muhammad Hafeez-ur-Rehman and includes Korangi Fish Harbour Authority Director General Dr Shahid, Marine Fisheries Department Director General Dr Mansoor Wasan, and Assistant Commissioner Fisheries Muhammad Farhan Khan, said a press release issued.

The minister said this was the right time to attract businesses towards Pakistan's fisheries sector, adding that improved incentives and closer engagement with exporters would help raise seafood exports and strengthen the sector's contribution to the national economy.

The committee has been tasked with reviewing the proposed incentive mechanism and submitting its recommendations to the minister within a week.

It will also develop proposals for national awards to recognize outstanding fish exporters and will consult industry stakeholders before finalizing the framework.

During the meeting, Dr Mansoor Wasan said targeted incentives and stronger coordination with exporters could enhance the competitiveness of Pakistan's seafood industry in international markets.

The minister noted that seafood exports reached $568mn in FY2025-26, calling the fisheries sector an important source of export earnings and employment.

 He said the government was pursuing measures to expand seafood exports, improve quality standards, and strengthen international competitiveness through targeted incentives and closer collaboration with industry stakeholders.

Junaid Anwar Chaudhry directed the committee to engage exporters, processors and other stakeholders to develop practical recommendations aimed at increasing exports, promoting value addition, and strengthening Pakistan's position in global seafood markets.

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