Punjab has formally launched a modern, technology-driven shrimp farming initiative, marking the beginning of a new phase in the province’s blue economy, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced on Monday.
According to the chief minister, the project focuses on advanced shrimp aquaculture, supported by scientific research and an integrated value chain aimed at boosting production and exports. The initiative follows the successful completion of a pilot and research project carried out on 100 acres of land.
Maryam Nawaz said the project represents a significant step forward for Punjab’s economy, as it introduces modern aquaculture practices to the province. She explained that the plan includes the establishment of state-of-the-art hatcheries, aqua malls, processing plants, cold storage facilities and an integrated transportation system to ensure a complete value chain from production to export.
The chief minister announced that shrimp farming estates covering 5,300 acres will be established in Muzaffargarh and Sargodha by March 2026. She added that the project has been designed with the support of global research and development expertise and modern aquaculture technologies.
She further said that experts from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Ecuador, Australia and Mexico have contributed to the project, ensuring that it meets international standards.
According to the chief minister, the project has already moved into the implementation phase, with machinery deployed on site and technical teams working round the clock. She added that a feasibility study for an additional 2,600 acres is currently under way and that the project will be finalized for farmers at the start of next year.
