April 16, 2024

Experts emphasise aquaculture expansion to meet growing fish demand in Pakistan

Fisheries and aquaculture experts in Pakistan have emphasised the urgent need for significant expansion and sustained intensification of aquaculture to meet the rising demand for fish consumption, both locally and for export, Business Recorder reported.

Omar Hayat Khan, a fisheries expert, highlighted the diverse potential of aquaculture across Pakistan, from marine fish along the coastal areas to freshwater fish in regions like Sindh, Baluchistan, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. However, he underscored the importance of private sector investment and technological advancements to enhance fish production and meet market demands.

Khan called for the need for a comprehensive fisheries and aquaculture development plan spanning from 2025 to 2030, focusing on scientific approaches and addressing issues such as climate change impact on fish production.

He also noted the government's focus on rainwater harvesting for agriculture, which presents additional opportunities for increased fish production.

Corporate farming initiatives by the government offer potential for large-scale commercialisation of aquaculture, catering to both local consumption and export markets. Khan stressed the importance of improving fish preservation and food safety measures to ensure quality and accessibility for consumers.

Aquaculture, while growing rapidly, still lags behind livestock in terms of technological advancements. Khan advocated for improvements in breeding technology, fish feed development, and production intensification to meet increasing fish demand. Market surveys are essential to align production cycles with consumer demand.

Lessons from other countries, particularly in Southeast Asia, highlighted the potential for Pakistan to excel in aquaculture production and export.

With ample opportunities for local and foreign investment, Khan suggested organising small and medium enterprises of aquaculture into cooperatives or associations to mobilize resources effectively for national benefit.

-      Business Recorder