Seafood exports rise despite EU ban: The News

By Shahid Shah

KARACHI: Pakistan’s seafood exports increased in August compared to the same period last year after measures taken to improve the condition of harbour and that of boats used in catching fish and shrimp.

According to data, seafood exports rose to 5,327 tons in August against 5,032 tons in August last year. Value of exports also increased to $9.653 million from $9.104 million.

Director General Marine Fisheries Department and Chief Executive Officer Fisheries Development Board, Mohammad Moazzam Khan, told The News several steps had been taken for making improvements at the harbour and modifying boats, which led to increase in seafood exports.

Sources said the exports rose after efforts made by the government which was serious about livestock and dairy development and get the EU ban on seafood exports lifted.

A European Union delegation is likely to visit Pakistan in October to inspect the Karachi Fisheries Harbour.

The EU de-listed all Pakistani seafood exporters in April 2007 and the ban has not yet been lifted. Out of 28 seafood processing units, 11 had been exporting to the EU.

When an EU mission visited the harbour in 2007, it found deficiencies both at the harbour and processing units. Expressing concern, the EU’s Directorate of Food and Veterinary submitted its 25-page findings to Pakistani authorities.

For more on this article, please click on the following link: Seafood exports rise despite EU ban: The News