A sub-committee on Aquaculture and Shrimp Value Chain set a 120-day deadline to prepare a roadmap to expand shrimp farming, strengthen value addition, and boost exports under a broader 24-month implementation framework.

Chairing the meeting, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the initiative aims to identify sector bottlenecks and develop practical solutions to transform aquaculture into a competitive, export-oriented industry.

The committee approved seven technical working groups and a projection and costing cell to prepare sector reports, export projections and reform proposals. The committee also adopted a 14-day action plan, directing participating institutions to complete assigned tasks within stipulated timelines.

Provincial representatives highlighted key challenges, including value chain development, hatchery establishment, traceability and processing. Sindh officials informed the meeting that a feasibility study is underway for a 3,500-acre shrimp farming project.

The minister said federal and provincial governments would work together to unlock the country’s shrimp farming potential and increase export competitiveness.