ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry on Saturday has reiterated his commitment to promote sustainable fisheries management, protecting marine biodiversity and ensuring economic growth through responsible tuna harvesting.
In his statement on World Tuna Day, Junaid Chaudhry noted that tuna played a vital role in global food security, livelihoods and economic stability, calling for collective action by governments, industries, and consumers.
The country marks World Tuna Day under the theme “Advocating for Tuna Conservation.” The World Tuna Day, established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2016, underscores the global need to combat overfishing, promote sustainable practices, and safeguard tuna stocks for future generations.
Junaid Chaudhry said Pakistan has taken significant strides in aligning its fisheries sector with international conservation standards. “For the first time, Pakistan has secured a quota of 25,000 metric tonnes from the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission, including 15,000 tonnes of yellowfin tuna and 10,000 tonnes of skipjack. This landmark achievement is expected to generate approximately $200 million in exports,” he added.
The minister acknowledged that despite annual catches exceeding 45,000 tonnes, a large portion had remained outside the formal economy due to unregulated practices. He said the government is addressing this through the implementation of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy, aimed at streamlining regulations, increasing revenues, and meeting international climate and conservation commitments.
Highlighting Pakistan’s growing role in global fisheries governance, he said a senior official from the Ministry of Maritime Affairs has been elected Chair of the IOTC’s Standing Committee on Administration and Finance, marking a significant milestone in the country’s 28-year engagement with international tuna management.
The minister further said Pakistan is gradually phasing out harmful fishing methods such as gillnetting and trawling, replacing them with selective longlining techniques to reduce bycatch and protect marine ecosystems. With support from the Food and Agriculture Organization, local fishers are being equipped with modern tools to improve catch quality and value.
He added that reforms in the export sector had significantly increased certification revenues, while infrastructure upgrades at fisheries harbours, including Korangi, would further enhance Pakistan’s export capacity, particularly to European markets. “Pakistan’s tuna sector is at a critical juncture, with sustainable quotas, policy reforms, and strong international partnerships paving the way for long-term economic growth, environmental protection, and increased foreign exchange earnings,” the minister concluded.
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