Pakistan’s blue economy surge

2026-02-19 - 19:43

Khawar Abbas Shah PAKISTAN’S maritime sector, long overlooked, is emerging as a critical driver of economic growth. Despite a 1,000-kilometer coastline, the country earns a mere $50,000 annually from coastal tourism—an amount negligible compared to the vast potential of the global blue economy. Internationally, 62 percent of the blue economy’s value is linked to coastal tourism, while 80 percent of trade volume and 70 percent of its financial value is carried via maritime routes. Under the leadership of Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, the Ministry has introduced historic reforms, positioning Pakistan’s maritime economy on a modern trajectory. Last year, the Ministry generated a profit of PKR 10 billion through enhanced port efficiency, reduced expenditures and the implementation of long-pending policies. Legal reforms, digitization, infrastructure development and workforce capacity building have collectively modernized ports, shipping and fisheries. Regulatory frameworks now meet international standards, including those of the International Maritime Organization and the Hong Kong Convention on Ship Recycling. Karachi Port handled a record 54 million tons of cargo, cutting vessel turnaround time by 24 to 36 hours and saving billions in operational costs. Port Qasim and Karachi also reclaimed encroached land and introduced bunkering services for the first time, increasing foreign exchange savings and transshipment traffic. For the first time, Pakistan launched passenger and cargo ferry services, while the development of an off-dock terminal in Gwadar on 100 acres promises to boost trade, tourism and regional connectivity. The construction of new container vessels marks a milestone in reducing dependence on foreign shipping and expanding the national fleet. Karachi Shipyard is becoming a hub for shipbuilding and repair, while the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation plans to expand its fleet to 30 vessels within a year and 60 within three years—potentially cutting $500 million annually in freight costs. The “Pakistan Maritime Century” initiative outlines a long-term vision built on five pillars: port expansion, modern fleet development, shipbuilding and recycling industries, eco-friendly maritime technology and human resource development. Fisheries have shown remarkable growth, with exports reaching 122,629 metric tons worth $253.24 million in the first half of FY 2025–26. China remains the largest buyer, alongside Thailand, the UAE, Malaysia and Japan. Education is central to this strategy. The Pakistan Marine Academy has been elevated to degree-granting status and the Maritime Educational Endowment Fund will provide scholarships to coastal communities, fostering sustainable development. Curricula now include marine biodiversity, fisheries management, disaster preparedness and environmental conservation, creating a generation capable of advancing both ocean conservation and the blue economy. Wetlands, ship recycling facilities in Gwadar and Gadani and eco-friendly maritime practices further strengthen Pakistan’s maritime resilience. Direct ferry routes from Gwadar to Oman aim to enhance bilateral trade and connectivity to Central Asia, positioning Pakistan as a regional transit hub. The Ministry’s reforms signal a transformative era: maritime education, port modernization, sustainable fisheries and advanced shipbuilding collectively advance Pakistan’s role in global trade. By aligning policies with the blue economy and sustainable development goals, Pakistan is not only strengthening its economy but also securing a maritime legacy for future generations. —The writer, based in Rawalpindi, is a journalist and columnist (khawar.syed14@gmail.com)