In bid to boost exports, govt sets 120-day deadline for roadmap to expand shrimp farming

A prime ministerial sub-committee has 120 days to develop a plan for expanding shrimp cultivation, adding value to seafood and growing exports, Dawn reported. The deadline falls within a wider 24-month implementation and review period. Chaired on Tuesday by Maritime Affairs Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, the group includes provincial fisheries officials and federal institutions.

The committee approved seven technical working groups and a costing unit, which will produce 14 reports and export projections. Its work will assess the sector using verified information, identify constraints and recommend steps on production, processing and export competitiveness; an initial 14-day task plan was also agreed. Sindh is preparing a feasibility study for a 3,500-acre shrimp farm, while Punjab officials said they were working to introduce shrimp farming and develop hatcheries in saline areas. Pakistan’s fish and fish-preparation exports reached $568 million in FY26, according to the report.