Pakistan secures four-year approval for seafood exports to US

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has obtained a four-year approval from the United States to export fish and seafood products, a development expected to further strengthen the country’s seafood industry after recording growth in exports during the last financial year.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced that the US decision reflects international recognition of Pakistan’s seafood quality and compliance with global standards. “Our fisheries sector has met the strict criteria of the US market, which shows Pakistan’s ability to compete internationally,” he said, adding that the approval will provide long-term stability and market access for exporters.

According to official figures, Pakistan’s seafood exports rose to $465 million in FY25, reflecting a 13.4 percent increase in value and an 8 percent growth in quantity compared to the previous year. The country shipped 216,350 tonnes of fishery products, up from 199,738 tonnes worth $410 million in FY24, according to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS).

Industry challenges

The Pakistan Fisheries Exporters Association (PFEA) credited the increase to the efforts of fishermen and processors who expanded Pakistan’s footprint despite global challenges. “The international seafood market remains under pressure due to lingering trade disruptions from past tariff regimes, while demand in China and other Asian markets has weakened,” said PFEA Senior Vice-Chairman Saeed Fareed.

He noted that most seafood processing plants in Pakistan are running at only 20 to 25 percent of their capacity due to a shortage of raw material. Limited access to high-value markets, such as the European Union, and the continued US ban on shrimp imports also remain hurdles.

Despite these difficulties, the government expects seafood exports to touch $600 million next year, supported by the US approval, which is seen as a breakthrough for ensuring continuity in shipments and boosting confidence in Pakistan’s fisheries sector.

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Web Desk