Pakistan is preparing to significantly strengthen its seafood export sector with the development of a 100-acre seafood processing and export zone at the Korangi Fisheries Harbour Authority (KoHFA) in Karachi. The project was announced by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, and is expected to play a key role in modernizing the country’s fisheries and seafood industry.
With an estimated investment of $80 million, the project will focus on establishing state-of-the-art, technology-based processing infrastructure. Planned facilities include modern seafood processing units, cold storage warehouses, advanced packaging systems and value-addition plants designed to meet international quality and hygiene standards. The initiative aims to transform Pakistan’s seafood exports by moving away from raw and low-value products toward fully processed, high-value items that can compete in global markets.
The export zone will be developed under a public-private partnership model and is expected to accommodate around 20 to 25 medium and large-scale seafood processing companies. By creating direct links between local fishermen, processors and international buyers, the project will help improve supply chains, reduce post-harvest losses and increase foreign exchange earnings. Officials say the initiative will also support Pakistan’s broader blue economy strategy, generate employment opportunities and position Karachi as a regional hub for seafood processing and exports in the years ahead.
