A Growing Industry
Pakistan is eyeing export market of seafood. The nation aims at promoting its seafood exports to 600 million dollars. It is not merely an ambitious goal, it is an opportunity to transform its trade profile. As the need to consume fish increases all over the world, Pakistan has got a good target. The industry is now regarded as an engine for future growth.
China as a Key Partner
So, the center of this plan is China. The Chinese market is very large and growing at a high rate. China is considered by Pakistan not only as a buyer but also as a partner. There is exploration of joint ventures and direct trade channels. This collaboration can ensure the permanent purchasers of Pakistani seafood. Such transactions may also provide avenues for technology transfer and improved practices.
Export Potential Untapped
Significantly, the coastline of Pakistan is a long coastline. It contains valuable varieties of sea foods in its waters. But over years the nation has not managed to exploit its potential. It has been a poor infrastructural problem and weak processing facilities. A lot of exporters find it hard to adhere to quality standards. This has seen the exports of Pakistan fall short of their actual potential.
To achieve the 600M target, the modernization is essential to Pakistan. This implies spending on cold storage, processing plants and improved logistics. It also entails the training of fishermen in sustainable practices. Export growth is impossible without such reforms. Quality requirements of China and other buyers will be not satisfied.
China’s Appetite for Fish
Interestingly, seafood is one of the rising tastes of Chinese consumers. Outlets in the fish imports have surged over the past years. Pakistan is geographically in a good position to deliver China in a short period. This gives it competitive advantage. Fresh seafood also takes shorter periods to reach the markets in China than their local distant suppliers.
Competition is Fierce
Competition in this area is rough. Already, the countries such as Vietnam, Thailand and India control the exports of seafood. Their systems and international goodwill are developed. Pakistan should try to get its own place. Its target can be just a dream unless there are aggressive improvements.
Government Support is Vital
The government must take a front line. The policies to assist exporters are required on a high priority. The solution includes tax breaks, subsidies on new equipment and ready money. Close observation to ensure quality of products is also important. Exporters will be confident the state is committed and will be led by example.
A Window of Opportunity
The 600M goal is not out of reach. Pakistan has a rare window with the collaboration of China. But windows are not kept open. The nation cannot afford to take long to restructure the seafood industry. When managed properly seafood exports will become one of the pillars of foreign income. This is one opportunity that Pakistan cannot afford to miss.
