By Moaaz Manzoor

A total of 174 Pakistani fish processing plants have been enlisted with Chinese authorities, expanding market access for the country's fisheries sector and strengthening trade links with one of Pakistan's largest export destinations, according to the Pakistan Economic Survey 2025-26.

The survey highlights China as an increasingly important market for Pakistani seafood products as bilateral agricultural and food trade continues to grow.

According to the report, the enlistment of 174 fish processing plants with the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China enables a larger number of Pakistani exporters to supply seafood products to the Chinese market under approved regulatory arrangements.

The development reflects ongoing efforts to improve compliance with international standards and strengthen export competitiveness.

China's large consumer market offers significant opportunities for seafood exporters, particularly as demand for fish and marine products continues to increase.

The survey notes that expanding access to the Chinese market is expected to support investment in processing and cold-chain infrastructure across the fisheries sector.

The report highlights that compliance with food safety and quality requirements remains essential for maintaining export approvals and building long-term market confidence.

Pakistan's fisheries sector supports economic activity in coastal regions, particularly in Sindh and Balochistan, where fishing and seafood processing provide employment and income opportunities.

According to the survey, improvements in export infrastructure and certification systems have helped Pakistani seafood producers meet the requirements of international markets.

The registration of additional facilities is expected to enhance the country's export capacity by allowing more companies to participate in overseas trade.

The survey notes that export diversification remains a key economic objective, with agricultural and food products increasingly contributing to foreign exchange earnings.

China has emerged as one of Pakistan’s top buyers of fish and fisheries products, along with Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, Malaysia and Japan.

According to the report, strengthening fisheries exports can support coastal development, generate employment and encourage investment throughout the seafood value chain.

The survey highlights the importance of maintaining quality standards and improving value-added processing to maximize the benefits of growing access to international markets.

Credit: INP-WealthPk