Gwadar Port Can Earn $850 Million Per Year from Fisheries, Dates: Maritime Minister

Federal Maritime Affairs Minister Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said on Friday that Gwadar Port can generate over $850 million annually through value-added exports of fisheries and dates, if backed by sustained investment, infrastructure upgrades, and targeted policy support. Chairing a meeting on Gwadar Port’s operationalization, the minister said fisheries alone could bring in $645 million annually, with Balochistan’s fish catch potential at 300,000 tons. However, actual output is nearly half due to outdated fishing technology, low capacity, and regulatory bottlenecks. He noted that 34 fish processing units operate in Balochistan, but most need modernisation to meet export standards. On dates, the minister said Panjgur and Turbat districts produce over 225,000 tons annually and could generate $200–$205 million with proper value addition. He also announced improved air connectivity, stating that PIA will increase flights to Gwadar from one to three per week: two to Karachi and one to Islamabad. A chartered flight facility for investors is also under review.