Pakistan Secures US Permit for Fish Exports
Pakistan secures US approval to extend seafood exports for four more years
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has received authorization to continue exporting fish and seafood products to the United States for another four years, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced on Saturday.
The minister said the extension reflects international recognition of the quality of Pakistan’s seafood and will provide long-term stability to the industry. With the U.S. being one of the world’s largest seafood importers, the approval is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s position in the global seafood market.
International recognition
The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) classified all Pakistani fisheries listed on its List of Foreign Fisheries (LOFF) as “comparable” under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA).
“This classification confirms that Pakistan’s fisheries meet U.S. standards for protecting marine mammals from incidental mortality and serious injury during fishing operations,” the minister said.
The MMPA requires fisheries to adopt conservation practices, reduce marine mammal bycatch, and ensure sustainable operations—measures that also promote healthier ecosystems.
Economic impact
Currently, Pakistani seafood earns about US$ 2 per kilogram in the international market. With this compliance recognition, the price is projected to rise, potentially unlocking new opportunities in European and Gulf markets.
In FY 2024–25, Pakistan exported 242,484 metric tons of fish and related products worth US$ 489.2 million. If the same export volume is maintained next year, the endorsement could push revenues closer to US$ 600 million.
A milestone in sustainable fisheries
Minister Chaudhry highlighted that Pakistan’s successful submission of a compliance dossier to NOAA under the MMPA was a critical milestone. The approval validates Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to regulate its commercial fisheries, implement sustainable practices, and align with international environmental standards.
He stressed that the approval is vital not only for safeguarding Pakistan’s multi-million-dollar seafood exports to the U.S. market but also for enhancing the country’s reputation for responsible fisheries management worldwide.
At the same time, he emphasized the need to continue strengthening protective measures for marine mammal populations, as recommended by NOAA, to ensure long-term marine biodiversity.
Background
The fisheries of Pakistan Wikipedia play a crucial role in national exports and livelihoods, with seafood being one of the fastest-growing sectors. Aligning with U.S. and global standards is expected to bring lasting economic and ecological benefits.
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