Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has declared that the blue economy will be a “game changer” for the nation’s economic future, with an ambitious goal to expand its worth from the current $1 billion to $100 billion by 2047.
Speaking at a virtual maritime conference, Aurangzeb said Pakistan’s current contribution from the blue economy—which includes fisheries, ports, shipping, renewable energy, and marine biotechnology—accounts for just 0.4% to 0.5% of the national GDP. However, he believes that with the right roadmap, this figure can transform the country's financial landscape.
“This billion dollars getting to a 100 billion blue economy number by the time we get to 2047 is transformational,” Aurangzeb said. “It’s the right ambition that we have set for ourselves as we move forward.”
The finance minister outlined a detailed roadmap to achieve this milestone, emphasizing that Pakistan’s maritime sector has immense potential to drive sustainable growth and strengthen its position in regional trade.
Aurangzeb highlighted that improving fisheries and aquaculture would be central to this transformation. The government plans to modernize cold chain logistics, introduce value-added seafood processing, and ensure global hygiene standards. With these reforms, seafood exports—currently around $500 million—could grow to $2 billion within the next few years.
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He added that these initiatives are being guided by a national fisheries and aquaculture policy developed in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). This policy aims to maintain long-term consistency and attract foreign investment in the maritime sector.
To support this growth, Pakistan will digitize and upgrade port operations at Karachi, Port Qasim, and Gwadar. “We want to replicate international best practices and strengthen regional trade partnerships,” the minister explained. These improvements are expected to enhance trade efficiency, reduce operational delays, and position Pakistan as a regional logistics hub.
Aurangzeb also announced plans to explore renewable energy opportunities through tidal and offshore wind generation projects. In addition, Pakistan aims to develop marine biotechnology value chains—an emerging field that could open new doors for innovation and export diversification.
Innovative financing tools such as blue bonds and blended funding models will help sustain these initiatives while ensuring environmental and economic balance.
The finance minister underscored that strong international partnerships and trade links would play a vital role in supporting Pakistan’s economic ambitions. “Our relationships are evolving from government-to-government discussions to trade and investment flows,” he said, expressing optimism for a sustainable growth path.
Aurangzeb concluded that the blue economy—alongside other transformative sectors like digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and mining—will serve as a major engine for Pakistan’s long-term growth.
“This is a game-changing sector where the potential is huge,” he said. “With clear targets and policy consistency, the blue economy will play a central role in propelling Pakistan’s economy forward.”
