Govt eyes value addition, infrastructure upgrades, and expanded flights to unlock region’s export potential
ISLAMABAD – With the right mix of investment, policy reforms, and modern infrastructure, Gwadar Port could rake in over $850 million annually through exports of processed seafood and dates, according to Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry.
Chairing a high-level meeting on Gwadar’s operational future, the minister laid out a roadmap to tap into the region’s untapped potential — one that centers around local empowerment, value-added exports, and improved connectivity.
Participants from the Maritime Affairs Ministry, Gwadar Port Authority, and representatives from Commerce, Industries, and Communications joined the meeting, many attending virtually via Zoom.
Chaudhry highlighted that Gwadar’s economy rests heavily on two key sectors — fisheries and date farming — and that both require urgent modernization to become globally competitive.
“Gwadar has immense potential when it comes to fish catch, but what we lack is value addition. We need to move beyond raw exports and focus on processing, packaging, and branding,” he said.
He pointed out that although 34 fish processing units operate across Balochistan, most fall short of international standards due to outdated equipment. “Upgrading these facilities could transform the sector and allow Pakistan to compete in high-end global seafood markets,” he added.
Balochistan’s coastline, which makes up over 76% of the country’s shoreline, holds a catch potential of around 300,000 tonnes annually. However, only half of that is being realized due to limited fishing fleets, technological gaps, and outdated regulations. If fully utilized with proper value addition, the minister said the fisheries sector alone could generate up to $645 million each year.
Turning to the date industry, Chaudhry noted that Panjgur and Turbat — both located in southern Balochistan — produce more than 225,000 tonnes of dates annually, accounting for over half of the country’s total production. “With investment in processing, packaging, and branding, the date industry could contribute $200 to $205 million to the national economy,” he said.
As part of efforts to improve logistics and investor access, the minister also revealed that Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) would soon increase its weekly flights to Gwadar from one to three. Discussions are also underway to introduce a charter flight service dedicated to business investors.
“This is not just about boosting exports,” Chaudhry said. “It’s about creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and finally giving Gwadar the economic lift it has long deserved.”
