Panel formed to develop aquaculture promotion plan

Business Recorder reported that the Maritime Affairs Ministry has appointed a sub-committee to chart ways to grow aquaculture and raise shrimp output, following a direction from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The group has 120 days to produce a roadmap covering shrimp farming, value addition and exports, within a wider 24-month programme for implementation and review.

Its work will include assessing the sector’s starting point, locating value-chain obstacles and preparing production and export proposals using verified information and stakeholder input. Seven specialist groups and a costing unit are to prepare 14 reports and export forecasts, while institutions have also received tasks under a 14-day initial plan. The minister said the government would coordinate with provincial administrations and other stakeholders; he also cited plans to expand Pakistan National Shipping Corporation’s fleet, improve port operations and support refrigerated cargo.