Current status of shrimp fishery in Pakistan: economic role, challenges, opportunities and strategies for aquaculture development

Abstract

The Shrimp fishery has an important role in society to meet current and future food, livelihood, employment, business and other economic needs. The capture fishery is one of the largest food-providing sector, whereas aquaculture has emerged as the fastest food-contributing sector globally. This research determines the socio-economic structure of shrimp fishery with a prime objective to expose an overview of shrimp fishery with economic perspective in Pakistan. In addition, further specifying the shrimp capture production, export earnings, farming and socio-impact in coastal region. Indus delta is the most favourable breeding ground for many fish and shrimp species, exhibiting highly rich in natural resources. There is a huge non-agricultural land available along the coast, which can be utilized for aquaculture. This study elucidates that the Shrimp fisheries is ‘Drowning’ in Pakistan. Hence, in order to sustainably develop shrimp aquaculture in Pakistan, this study aims to propose developmental strategies for authorities to establish an extension aquaculture in fisheries department all over the country. In addition, promoting shrimp farming initially at coastal regions to benefit and generate numerous opportunities for sustainable development in country’s livelihood.