Pakistan's fish, seafood exports hit record $568m in FY26

July 09, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan's exports of fish and fish preparations reached a record $568m during fiscal year 2025-26, which marks the highest-ever seafood export earnings for the country.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, in a statement on Thursday, said the milestone reflected the government's commitment to strengthening the blue economy, expanding seafood exports and ensuring compliance with international food safety and quality standards.

Frozen fish remained the leading export commodity with earnings of $105.09m, followed by frozen squid and cuttlefish at $103.71m, fish meal at $83.12m, shrimps at $62.14m, crabs at $36.89m, sardines at $30.62m, mackerels at $22.67m, flat fish at $17.24m, octopus at $15.18m and minced fish meat (surimi) at $14.63m.

The minister said seafood exports were shipped mainly to China, Thailand, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Indonesia and the United States, according to a press release issued.

Junaid Chaudhry said the record performance had been achieved despite disruptions to regional trade and maritime logistics caused by the evolving situation in the Gulf region, which he said showcases the resilience of the fisheries sector and the commitment of exporters and regulatory institutions.

He lauded Dr Mansoor Ali Wassan and the team at the Marine Fisheries Department for their role in maintaining international standards, strengthening regulatory oversight and facilitating access to export markets.

The minister reiterated the government's commitment to strengthening quality assurance systems, diversifying export destinations, promoting value addition and enhancing the global competitiveness of the fisheries industry.

He said a performance review ceremony would be held soon to recognise the top 10 fisheries exporters, with certificates of appreciation to be presented by the prime minister.

Junaid Chaudhry congratulated the Marine Fisheries Department, the Pakistan Fisheries Exporters Association, fish processors, exporters and other stakeholders for achieving the unprecedented target.

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