Islamabad: The Pakistan Business Forum (PBF) has urged the government to adopt bold and targeted measures in the upcoming Federal Budget 2026–27 to unlock the country’s underutilized blue economy potential, calling it a “critical opportunity” for long-term sustainable growth.
According to Beyond Time News, PBF Chief Organizer Ahmad Jawad said Pakistan must shift toward new growth engines, especially as the country faces pressure to boost exports, attract investment, create jobs, and strengthen foreign exchange reserves without placing additional burden on taxpayers.
Blue Economy Seen as Untapped Growth Frontier
Ahmad Jawad said Pakistan has relied for decades on traditional sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, services, and taxation reforms. While these sectors remain important, he stressed that the country must now expand its economic vision.
He said Pakistan’s maritime sector represents a largely untapped frontier that could transform the national economy if properly developed and supported through policy reforms and investment incentives.
He added that the upcoming budget should mark the beginning of a structured maritime transformation strategy.
$15 Billion Maritime Opportunity Highlighted
The PBF chief organizer estimated that Pakistan’s blue economy has the potential to generate around $15 billion annually.
He said global blue economy activity already exceeds $2.5 trillion per year, supporting millions of jobs worldwide. However, Pakistan’s share remains minimal despite its long coastline and vast maritime jurisdiction.
Pakistan’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), he noted, covers about 240,000 square kilometres and has expanded further following international approval of its extended continental shelf.
Fisheries and Aquaculture Identified as Key Sectors
Jawad said fisheries and aquaculture represent one of the strongest immediate opportunities for economic expansion.
He pointed out that Pakistan’s waters contain valuable species such as tuna, shrimp, lobster, crab, mackerel, and sardines. However, seafood exports remain significantly below global benchmarks.
He urged the government to invest in modern fish harbours, seafood processing zones, cold storage systems, testing laboratories, and certification centres to improve export competitiveness.
He also stressed the importance of aquaculture, noting that global seafood consumption increasingly depends on fish farming rather than wild catch.
Proposal for Blue Economy Development Fund
Jawad proposed the creation of a dedicated Blue Economy Development Fund to support investment in fisheries, aquaculture, logistics, and related sectors.
He said concessional financing and targeted incentives could attract private investment and accelerate sectoral growth.
Maritime Logistics and Shipping Sector Needs Reform
The PBF also emphasized the importance of maritime logistics, noting that nearly 95% of Pakistan’s trade depends on sea routes.
Despite this reliance, the country continues to depend heavily on foreign shipping lines, resulting in significant foreign exchange outflows.
Jawad recommended incentives to expand Pakistan’s merchant fleet, encourage ship leasing, and strengthen local shipbuilding and repair industries.
He said shipbuilding alone could generate thousands of skilled jobs and create a strong industrial ecosystem.
Gwadar’s Strategic Role Highlighted
The statement also underlined the economic importance of Gwadar Port, describing it as a potential regional hub for logistics, warehousing, and trade connectivity.
Jawad said Gwadar could connect South Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, and Western China if properly developed.
He called for investment in infrastructure, including roads, water supply systems, industrial zones, and digital connectivity.
Coastal Tourism and Renewable Energy Opportunities
The PBF highlighted coastal tourism as another major growth area, pointing to destinations such as Kund Malir, Ormara, Pasni, Astola Island, Jiwani, and Gwadar.
Jawad said Pakistan’s coastline has strong potential for sustainable tourism development if supported with infrastructure, training, and private-sector incentives.
He also emphasized offshore renewable energy, including wind and tidal power, as a promising solution for long-term energy diversification.
Environmental Protection Emphasized
While calling for expansion, Jawad stressed the importance of environmental sustainability.
He warned that illegal fishing, marine pollution, and coastal degradation could threaten long-term economic benefits if not addressed.
He urged investment in marine conservation, scientific research, and environmental monitoring systems.
Major Budget Recommendations
The Pakistan Business Forum proposed a set of key policy measures for the upcoming budget, including:
- Establishment of a National Blue Economy Development Fund
- Fisheries modernization programs
- Tax incentives for maritime investors
- Expansion of shipbuilding and repair industries
- Development of coastal tourism zones
- Infrastructure upgrades for Gwadar
- Offshore renewable energy initiatives
- Strengthening marine conservation efforts
- Maritime investment promotion strategy
- Public-private partnership frameworks
- Increased funding for maritime education and research
Call for Institutional Reform
Jawad said the Ministry of Maritime Affairs must take a leading role in driving maritime development.
He suggested the creation of a dedicated investor facilitation unit to prepare projects, engage global investors, and coordinate with relevant institutions.
He also urged stronger coordination between the ministry, Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), Board of Investment, and private-sector organizations.
Conclusion
The PBF said Pakistan stands at a critical economic crossroads where maritime resources could become a major driver of growth.
Jawad stressed that the challenge is not potential, but execution and policy direction.
He said the upcoming budget offers a historic opportunity to reposition the blue economy as a central pillar of national development, rather than a secondary sector.
“The sea has always been one of Pakistan’s greatest assets,” he said, adding that it is time to fully invest in it.
FAQs
What is the blue economy?
The blue economy refers to economic activities related to oceans, seas, and coastal resources, including fisheries, shipping, tourism, and marine energy.
What is Pakistan’s blue economy potential?
Experts estimate Pakistan’s blue economy could generate around $15 billion annually if fully developed.
Which sectors are included in the blue economy?
Key sectors include fisheries, shipping, logistics, coastal tourism, renewable energy, and marine biotechnology.
Why is Gwadar important in this plan?
Gwadar is seen as a strategic hub that could connect major regional trade routes and support logistics and industrial growth.
What is the main demand of the Pakistan Business Forum?
The PBF is urging the government to introduce a dedicated policy framework and funding in the Federal Budget 2026–27 to develop the blue economy.
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