Govt Launches Rs. 90 Million Project to Protect Turtles and Boost Shrimp Trade

Pakistan has launched a Rs. 90 million initiative to protect endangered sea turtles and boost shrimp exports by introducing Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) in shrimp trawling operations. Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced the move on Thursday, describing it as a step toward marine sustainability and compliance with international seafood standards. He said the project includes the free distribution and installation of standardised TEDs, along with training sessions for trawler crews and capacity-building workshops for fishermen. Data will also be collected to assess the devices’ impact on shrimp catch and net performance. A TED is a specialised grid-like mechanism fitted inside shrimp trawl nets. It allows turtles and large marine animals to escape while keeping shrimp inside. The minister noted that TEDs will help reduce the accidental capture of endangered species and address concerns from local fishermen about shrimp loss and net damage. Crucially, the initiative will help Pakistan regain US certification for shrimp exports, a requirement suspended years ago over non-compliance with marine protection protocols. “This project reflects Pakistan’s commitment to responsible marine resource management,” Chaudhry said. “It will improve the country’s global image in the seafood trade and support long-term biodiversity goals.” Officials said the programme aligns with Pakistan’s international commitments on marine sustainability, particularly those linked to seafood traceability and biodiversity conservation.