Pakistan’s largest shrimp farming project spanning 5,000 acres of land is being launched in the Punjab province in early next year. This will be the largest shrimp project in Punjab and in the country as well.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced this development today. The Punjab government has announced a Rs50 billion plan to expand shrimp farming across the province.
Officials said the initiative aims to strengthen the local economy and increase export earnings. The programme includes major investments in farming sites, processing facilities and market infrastructure.
Large-Scale Farming Site Planned in Muzaffargarh
Earlier, the Department of Fisheries announced a 3,000-acre shrimp farming site in Muzaffargarh. Officials said the site will be located in Rakh Ali Wala with an initial cost of Rs10 billion.
The government plans to develop three shrimp value chain estates across South Punjab. These estates will be established in Head Muhammad Wala, Rakh Ali Wala and Shahgarh. Their combined development cost is estimated at Rs40 billion.
Integrated Estates to Strengthen Production Capacity
Meanwhile, Deputy Director of Fisheries Tayyab Rizwan said the value chain estates will be fully integrated.
He said the estates will include hatcheries, feed mills and shrimp processing plants.
These facilities are expected to improve production efficiency and support industry growth.
Officials said the initiative will create jobs and enhance seafood export potential.
Lahore to Get Modern Fish Market
The Punjab government also plans to build a state-of-the-art fish market in Lahore. Officials said the market will be constructed with an investment of Rs10 billion. The facility will feature cold storage, value addition units and a modern supply chain.
The design aims to ease market access for fish and shrimp farmers across the region. An initial allocation of Rs848.6 million has been approved to start construction.
