March 28, 2005

Pakistan's seafood exports fall by $10 million following ban

Seafood exports from Pakistan to EU countries fell by over $10 million during the last month following a ban imposed by the Pakistani government.

The ban came about after EU inspectors exposed the unhygienic conditions of Karachi Fish Harbour. Conditions however have not improved, making the self-imposed ban futile.

Akhlaq Hussain of Akhlaq Enterprises, one of the biggest shrimp exporters said during the last one-month buyers from Belgium, Ireland, the United Kingdom and France sent for many enquiries, showing buying interests.

Instead, Indian products are gradually making their way into these countries, and much of the Pakistani seafood catch is wasted, or fetching lower prices in the other regions.

The EU countries made up 54 percent of Pakistan $128 million seafood export during 2003-04.

Exporters fear current fiscal may see drastic cut in overall seafood export figures in general, affected by decline in the foreign exchange earned through export to the EU countries.

"Beating last year's figures looks a far cry," said Khalid Nazeer of SeaClass. "I think we would not be able to match last year's figures and the current situation validates my fears."

He said the seafood exports were facing the same situation as in 1998 when the EU imposed a ban on imports from Pakistan on quality problems. It lasted for over seven months and the country lost $75 million market during the period.