Sindh Minister Urges Private Sector to Invest in Livestock and Fisheries

Strategic Insights -

Sindh Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Muhammad Ali Malkani, has called on the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) to nominate representatives for advisory bodies of the Livestock and Fisheries Department. This would allow the private sector to actively shape policies and future planning in the sector. During a visit to the Karachi Chamber, Malkani highlighted the investment potential in livestock and fisheries, calling them high-return sectors. He stressed the urgent need to shift from ocean fishing to sustainable aquaculture, as fish stocks deplete. He noted that businesspeople have already entered fish and shrimp farming but underscored the need to scale efforts. He also urged investment in value-addition, including fish cleaning, freezing, and date processing, to reduce post-harvest losses.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Sindh Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Muhammad Ali Malkani, has called on the KCCI to nominate representatives for advisory bodies to shape policies in the sector.
  • Livestock and fisheries are high-return sectors, with guaranteed returns within six months, unmatched by other industries.
  • The Minister stressed the need to shift from ocean fishing to sustainable aquaculture due to depleting fish stocks.
  • Pakistan's marine and aquaculture exports currently hover below $500 million annually.
  • The Sindh government is ready to provide technical support to investors.
  • Long-term ventures like meat and shrimp farming could help reduce poverty in rural areas.
  • Fish farming offers high returns and job creation with less effort.
  • Most private investment remains focused on textiles, and efforts are needed to raise awareness among investors.

Statistics:

  • Pakistan's marine and aquaculture exports currently hover below $500 million annually.
  • The Makran coast contributes 40% of Pakistan's fish catch.
  • Kech and Panjgur produce over half the country's dates.
  • Post-harvest losses amount to 30-40% due to lack of processing facilities.

Sources:

  • Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI)
  • Sindh Government statement released on Wednesday