ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has begun construction of an environmentally efficient floating jetty at the Korangi Fisheries Harbour in Karachi, in a move aimed at boosting seafood exports and improving operational efficiency in the fisheries sector, officials said.
Pakistan’s seafood exports currently stand at around $500 million annually, with key markets including China, the Gulf, Southeast Asia, Europe, and the United States, according to Arab News.
The floating jetty, estimated to cost Rs120 million ($429,000), is expected to be completed by June and will facilitate fishermen in offloading export-quality catch more efficiently.
Maritime Affairs Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the project would provide safer and more reliable access to the water while improving the landing and unloading process.
He added that the initiative is expected to enhance operational efficiency and create new economic opportunities for coastal communities.
Unlike fixed infrastructure, the floating jetty will adjust to tidal variations, allowing uninterrupted access for vessels regardless of changing water levels.
Officials said this would reduce turnaround time between fishing trips, enabling fishermen to spend more time at sea while lowering operational costs.
The facility will also include a dedicated offloading point integrated with monitoring systems to support sustainable fishing practices and better resource management.
Chaudhry described floating jetties as a cost-effective solution for areas with significant tidal fluctuations, adding that environmental considerations have been incorporated into the project’s design.
The development comes as Pakistan seeks to expand its seafood exports and explore new markets.
Earlier, the maritime ministry said Russia had approved 16 Pakistani seafood processing plants for exports, potentially opening a market worth up to $300 million.
Officials said the move could pave the way for shipments to Russia and the wider Eurasian region, as Islamabad looks to diversify beyond traditional export destinations.
