Pakistan’s large coastline and diverse fishing sector contribute significantly to its economy through exports of high-quality, delicious, and nutritious fish types in Pakistan, attracting global demand.
The Wellness Trend: Adopting Fatty Fish High in Omega-3
The great demand for these fish in Pakistan varieties enjoyed in international markets is influenced by several factors:
Nutritional Value: Omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and other vital nutrients are abundant in many of the fish exported from Pakistan, which makes them a popular option for health-conscious consumers.
Culinary Versatility: The fish exports may be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, frying, baking, and steaming, which increases their attractiveness in a variety of culinary contexts.
Assurance of Quality: To comply with worldwide standards for quality and safety, Pakistan’s fishing industry has been raising the bar on its processing and packaging practices. This guarantees the freshness and nutritious value of the fish that is shipped.
Cultural Preferences: Since some fish species are essential to traditional recipes and eating customs in importing nations, these cultural preferences also influence demand.
Culinary Versatility: The fish exports may be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, frying, baking, and steaming, which increases their attractiveness in a variety of culinary contexts.
Assurance of Quality: To comply with worldwide standards for quality and safety, Pakistan’s fishing industry has been raising the bar on its processing and packaging practices. This guarantees the freshness and nutritious value of the fish that is shipped.
Cultural Preferences: Since some fish species are essential to traditional recipes and eating customs in importing nations, these cultural preferences also influence demand.
The following are a few of the most popular fish names in Pakistan exports
Indian Mackerel
Indian Mackerel Export from Pakistan
- Popular for its rich flavor and high oil content.
- Staple in Asian cuisines, especially South and Southeast Asia.
- Exported in frozen or processed form for quality and shelf life extension.
Ribbon fish
“Ribbon Fish: High-Demand Export Market”
- Also known as Shan Mahi.
- Unique appearance and firm texture.
- Popular in East Asian markets.
- Exported frozen or dried for quality preservation.
Pomfret
- Known as Safaid Paplet in Pakistan.
- Known for delicate flavor and smooth texture.
- Widely used in gourmet cooking.
- Favored in Chinese and Indian cuisines.
- High market demand makes it a lucrative export product.
The top importers of Pakistani fish and aquatic products are Thailand, China, Vietnam, UAE, and Korea, followed by Malaysia, Kuwait, Japan, Saudi Arabia, & Indonesia
Shrimp/Prawns
- Significant quantity exported, known as "Jhinga."
- Valued for taste and nutritional content.
- High demand in the US, EU, Japan, China.
- Major export varieties: Black tiger shrimp, white shrimp, brown shrimp
Tilapia
- Gaining popularity due to mild taste and versatility.
- Fast-growing in aquaculture.
- Reliable export product.
- Pakistan exports to Middle Eastern and European markets.
- Consumed in fresh fillets and processed products.
Grouper
- Known for size, firm texture, unique taste.
- High demand in China, Hong Kong, East Asia.
- Commonly exported varieties: brown-marbled and orange-spotted.
