Junaid Kafili
KARACHI: The National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) convened a national-level webinar-cum-seminar on February 12 to examine the present status, challenges and future pathways of Pakistan’s fisheries and aquaculture sector.
The event brought together policymakers, federal and provincial fisheries officials, academics and private-sector stakeholders to deliberate on strengthening the sector’s contribution to economic growth and food security.
Strategic role in Blue Economy
In his welcome address, Commodore M. Masud Akram, Director NIMA Karachi, highlighted fisheries as a key pillar of Pakistan’s Blue Economy. He underscored the need for integrated policy reforms, modernization of aquaculture practices and improved coordination among provinces.
Speakers emphasized that the sector holds significant export and employment potential but requires structural reforms and technology adoption to compete regionally.
Key challenges identified
Participants discussed a range of structural and environmental challenges, including:
- Declining marine resources
- Climate change impacts on coastal ecosystems
- Limited modernization of hatcheries and aquaculture systems
- Gaps in regulatory compliance
- Weak value chain integration and export competitiveness
Experts stressed that sustainable aquaculture development, improved traceability standards and policy harmonization across provinces are critical for long-term growth.
Institutional reforms and technology adoption
Speakers from federal and provincial fisheries departments, academia and industry called for stronger institutional frameworks and research-backed policymaking. They also advocated the adoption of modern hatchery technologies, improved feed systems and digital monitoring mechanisms to enhance productivity.
The discussion reflected consensus that collaborative governance between federal and provincial stakeholders is essential to ensure sustainable marine resource management.
Focus on conservation
The seminar also featured a special appearance by Almas Kasmani, founder of Saltwater Marina Pvt Ltd, who highlighted the importance of mangrove conservation in protecting coastal biodiversity and sustaining fisheries. She was presented with a certificate of appreciation in recognition of her environmental advocacy.
Way forward
In his closing remarks, Rear Admiral Javaid Iqbal, President NIMA, emphasized research-driven policy, inter-agency collaboration and sustainable resource management as key pillars for transforming fisheries into a major contributor to Pakistan’s economy.
He reiterated NIMA’s commitment to promoting maritime research, policy dialogue and capacity building in line with Pakistan’s broader Blue Economy vision.
