ISLAMABAD – The government has announced a Rs3 billion aquaculture park at Korangi Fish Harbour in Karachi to strengthen the country’s blue economy and promote sustainable marine development. Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry revealed this during a high-level meeting attended by officials from the Marine Fisheries Department, Gwadar Port Authority, and other maritime stakeholders.
The 120-acre park is expected to produce between 360 and 1,200 tonnes of seafood annually, depending on the species and farming method used. Revenue is projected to range from $720,000 to $7.2 million per year. To attract private sector investment, the project will be developed through a public-private partnership model, ensuring efficient operations and long-term sustainability.
Moreover, experts told the meeting that Pakistan’s coastal waters provide ideal conditions for aquaculture, allowing the farming of various high-value marine species. The minister instructed the Korangi Fish Harbour Authority to prepare and submit a full execution plan within ten days to fast-track development. He also suggested replicating this model in Balochistan, where a vast coastline remains largely untapped.
To improve coordination and speed up decisions, the minister ordered the Marine Fisheries Department’s sub-office to relocate to the Gwadar Port Authority premises. This administrative change aims to bring relevant departments closer, making it easier to implement blue economy projects effectively. It also supports efforts to improve management and oversight of marine resources.
In a separate session, the minister reviewed Port Qasim Authority’s land allotment and lease policy. Officials shared that the Survey of Pakistan is now identifying PQA-owned land, while the authority’s master plan is being revised to align with the National Ports Master Plan currently in progress. This integration will support better planning for future maritime investments.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustainable marine growth, highlighting the role of aquaculture in food security, export growth, and job creation. These new initiatives mark an important step toward unlocking Pakistan’s maritime potential through innovation, partnerships, and long-term planning.