Pakistan has introduced a Rs90 million ($320,000) project to protect endangered sea turtles and promote sustainable shrimp trawling along its coast. Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced the initiative, calling it a key step toward balancing marine conservation with seafood export growth.
Turtle Excluder Devices to Aid Conservation
Under the project, the government will provide and install Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) free of cost on shrimp trawlers. These devices allow sea turtles and other large marine species to escape from nets while keeping shrimp catches intact. This innovation reduces accidental turtle deaths, a major issue in shrimp trawling operations.
Training, Workshops, and Data Monitoring
The project also includes hands-on training for trawler crews, capacity-building workshops, and data monitoring to measure the devices’ effectiveness. According to Chaudhry, these measures will help Pakistan meet international sustainability and traceability standards required by export destinations such as the US, EU, and GCC.
Economic Benefits for Shrimp Exports
Chaudhry highlighted the project’s economic potential. Currently, Pakistan sells shrimp at about $2 per kilogram.
With TED compliance and international certification, that price could increase to $6 per kilogram, potentially tripling export revenues.
Pakistan’s shrimp exports are worth nearly $100 million annually, but better compliance could open access to premium markets and boost foreign exchange earnings.
Maintaining US Certification and Global Standards
The minister emphasised the importance of maintaining US certification for seafood exports. He noted that in August 2025, the United States lifted a four-year ban on Pakistani seafood imports after verifying compliance with marine protection standards. Sustained compliance, he added, will safeguard this access and prevent any future export restrictions.
“This initiative shows Pakistan’s strong commitment to marine resource management and biodiversity conservation,” Chaudhry said. He assured that full TED compliance and strict enforcement would protect marine life while strengthening the country’s trade reputation.
Collaborative Effort for Sustainable Fishing
The project involves several key organisations, including the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), Pakistan Fisheries Exporters Association (PAKFEA), Sindh Trawler Owners and Fisheries Association (STOFA), Karachi Fish Harbour Authority (KFHA), and the Fishermen’s Cooperative Society (FCS).
Through this initiative, Pakistan aims to protect marine biodiversity and reinforce its standing in the global seafood market by demonstrating a lasting commitment to sustainable fishing practices.
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