Russia has officially approved the import of fish and seafood from Pakistan, marking a significant achievement for Pakistan’s fisheries sector.
According to the Marine Fisheries Department, 16 Pakistani fisheries exporters have been successfully registered with Russia’s Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (FSVPS). This registration will allow these companies to export fish and seafood products to the Russian market.
The approval came after Pakistan submitted complete dossiers in 2024 and engaged in sustained diplomatic efforts throughout 2025. A high-level meeting between Pakistan’s Ambassador to Russia and senior Russian officials played a key role in resolving remaining regulatory issues and finalizing the process.
This development opens the door to one of the world’s largest seafood markets. Russia has high demand for various types of fish, shrimp, and other seafood products. Pakistani exporters can now tap into this lucrative market, which is expected to significantly increase seafood exports from Pakistan.
Officials believe this will bring valuable foreign exchange earnings and create new job opportunities for fishermen and workers in the fisheries sector. It will also encourage investment and modernization in Pakistan’s seafood processing industry.
The Marine Fisheries Department has welcomed the decision and urged registered exporters to maintain high quality and hygiene standards to build a strong reputation in the Russian market.
This breakthrough is seen as an important step in diversifying Pakistan’s export destinations and strengthening economic ties with Russia. Further expansion of the approved exporter list is also expected in the coming months.
