GWADAR: Pakistan’s fisheries sector, the country has secured a tuna fishing quota of 25,000 metric tonnes from the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC), a move poised to inject an estimated $200 million into the national economy.
The quota includes 15,000 tonnes of yellowfin tuna and 10,000 tonnes of skipjack tuna two of the most commercially valuable species in global seafood markets.
This strategic allocation is set to crucially benefit the coastal region of Balochistan, particularly Gwadar, which is fast emerging as a hub for maritime trade and fisheries under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) framework.
In this sense, Pakistan’s overall fish production is projected to grow from 170,000 metric tonnes in 2023 to 181,000 metric tonnes by 2028, with an annual growth rate of 1.1%.
So far, there are significant regulatory reforms and institutional support have bolstered Pakistan’s case at the IOTC, aligning the country with global standards of responsible fishing and marine conservation.
Also Read: Joint strategy finalized to address Gwadar’s water crisis
Furthermore, local fishermen in Gwadar have welcomed the development, expressing hope that increased investment in cold storage, processing units, and export logistics will elevate their incomes and improve the standard of living in the region.
