Pakistan’s seafood exports to European Union (EU) countries are unlikely to resume in 2026. The EU has not included Pakistan in its inspection plan, extending the ban for at least another year, sources said.
The country’s seafood exports to the EU have been delisted since 2007. Government officials, however, remain hopeful that an EU inspection team may visit Pakistan next year, likely in the first quarter, following multiple discussions on the matter.
According to sources, Pakistan is not listed in the EU’s inspection plan for evaluating seafood processing facilities, particularly at Karachi Fish Harbour. This decision limits the possibility of enlisting additional processing companies. Exporters, however, appeared largely unfazed by the delay.
“There are already four companies exporting seafood to EU countries. Most others are hesitant because EU regulations are extremely strict,” said Saeed Farid, Senior Vice Chairman of the Pakistan Fisheries Export Association (PAKFEA).
He criticized the Sindh government for poor fish harbour maintenance and weak fisheries management. Farid said the main issue lies in insufficient support from officials to facilitate EU inspections. He also noted that declining fisheries landings have further reduced export capacity.
Farid added that new entrants are reluctant to seek EU approval. Nevertheless, China has emerged as Pakistan’s largest seafood importer, accounting for nearly 65 percent of total exports.
Experts say Pakistan’s blue economy has the potential to generate up to $2 billion in seafood exports if proper policies, infrastructure, and regulatory support are provided. For now, the EU market remains largely inaccessible until inspections can take place.
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The government and industry stakeholders continue to hold discussions to improve standards and meet EU requirements, aiming for future access to the European market.
