March 18, 2019: The fish and fisheries products exports have contributed US$ 451 million precious foreign exchange to national kitty during year 2017-18, registering around 27 percent increase as compared to previous year.
This is important sector as far as exports are concerned as the country exported 198,420 metric tons of fish and fisheries products during the period mentioned above.
The data issued by Ministry of Maritime Affairs on Monday revealed that during the year 2016-17, as many as 155,091 metric tons fish and fisheries products were exported and an amount of US $ 394 million was added to national exchequer.
Total fish exported from seven functional plants of Korangi Fisheries Harbour Authority (KOFHA) was US $17.5 million during year 2017-18.
The data showed that fish industry has two components, the Fisherman engaged in Fishing on Fishing Vessels in both the provinces (Sindh and Balochsitan) which are 400,000 in number while processing industries, Fish Harbour and Transportation of Fish fall in second category which employs 600,000 persons. Approximately 8000 people are engaged in fishery at KOFHA.
The major buyers are China, Thailand, Malaysia, Middle East, Sri Lanka, Japan etc. Fishery plays an important role in Pakistan's economy and is considered to be a source of livelihood for coastal inhabitants. Apart from marine fisheries, inland fisheries (based in rivers, lakes, ponds, dams etc.) are also important activities throughout the country.
