Gwadar Port Could Generate $850 Million Annually via Fisheries, Dates: Minister

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, stated on Friday that Gwadar Port possesses the capacity to generate more than $850 million annually through value-added fisheries and date exports with sustained investment, strategic policies, and upgraded infrastructure.

The minister presided over a high-level meeting focused on the operationalization of Gwadar Port. The meeting included representatives from the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, along with various relevant ministries and organizations such as the Gwadar Port Authority, and officials from the Commerce, Industries, and Communication sectors participating via Zoom. During the meeting, the minister outlined a detailed plan to enhance economic activities in Gwadar, according to an official statement.

Gwadar Port, a deep-sea port situated in the coastal city of Gwadar, Balochistan, holds significant strategic and economic importance as a crucial component of the multi-billion-dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

During the session, Junaid emphasized the critical role of fisheries and dates as key economic drivers in the region. He stated, “Gwadar offers considerable potential for fish harvesting, and our focus should be on enhancing local value addition to maximize the benefits.”

He noted that there are 34 fish processing facilities currently in operation in Balochistan. However, most of these require technological improvements to meet export standards. He further added, “Upgrading these facilities to incorporate value addition through improved packaging and processing prior to export is essential for the advancement of this sector.”

The minister highlighted that although Balochistan’s coastline accounts for 76.2% of Pakistan’s total coastal length, its fish production is significantly lower than its potential.

He explained, “Balochistan has the capacity to harvest approximately 300,000 tons of fish annually. With suitable value addition, this could result in revenues of around $645 million per year. However, present production levels are almost half of this amount due to restricted fishing capabilities, outdated technology, and regulatory obstacles.”

Regarding date production, the minister mentioned that the Panjgur and Turbat (Kech) districts collectively produce over 225,000 tons of dates each year, which is more than half of Pakistan’s total production. He added, “With value addition, this sector has the potential to generate revenues between $200 and $205 million annually.”

To facilitate business and improve connectivity within the region, the minister announced measures to improve air travel. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will increase its weekly flights to Gwadar from one to three.

He also mentioned that “There are considerations to introduce two weekly flights between Gwadar and Karachi, as well as one weekly flight connecting Gwadar and Islamabad.”

Furthermore, the minister noted that the introduction of a chartered flight service to ease travel for business people and investors is being explored.