Pakistan’s Blue Economy Poised to Transform National Growth, Says Finance Minister Aurangzeb
Pakistan’s Finance Minister, Muhammad Aurangzeb, has said that the country’s blue economy — the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth — will be a “game changer” for the nation’s future.
Speaking at a virtual maritime conference, he shared that while Pakistan’s current blue economy contributes only 0.4–0.5% to GDP (around $1 billion), the government aims to grow this figure to $100 billion by 2047 under a clear, actionable roadmap developed by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs.
“This transformation will be monumental,” the minister said, emphasizing that Pakistan’s long coastline, rich marine biodiversity, and growing regional trade links provide enormous potential for expansion in fisheries, aquaculture, port logistics, renewable energy, and marine biotechnology.
He explained that fisheries exports—currently around $500 million—could rise to $2 billion within four years through value-added processing, cold-chain modernisation, and improved hygiene standards under a new national policy developed with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
Modernising Pakistan’s major ports—Karachi, Port Qasim, and Gwadar—and introducing digital systems will further enhance regional connectivity and global competitiveness.
Aurangzeb also revealed upcoming initiatives in offshore wind and tidal energy and marine biotechnology, which will be supported through blue bonds and innovative financing models to ensure environmental and economic sustainability.
“Along with digital infrastructure, AI, and mining, the blue economy represents one of Pakistan’s most promising growth engines,” he concluded. “With consistency and commitment, we can unlock its full potential.”
