- August 17, 2026
- Posted by: Tresmark
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The Punjab government has launched its largest-ever seafood and shrimp farming initiative, aiming to develop shrimp aquaculture as a new driver of the province’s blue economy, employment and exports.
The government has given in-principle approval to prepare a plan for shrimp farming across 30,000 acres in Punjab, including Bahawalpur. A survey conducted with foreign experts has identified around 40,000 potential sites for shrimp farming.
At Ali Wala, a hatchery will be established across 5,300 acres with 737 ponds and an annual production capacity of 280 million shrimp. Two processing plants with capacities of 10 tonnes and 5 tonnes per hour are also planned.
Pakistan’s first modern aquaculture mall and shrimp diagnostic laboratory will also be established, providing farmers with seed, feed, machinery and technical support.
The province has already prepared around 1,000 shrimp farms covering 5,500 acres, with stocking and production underway in Muzaffargarh and Sargodha. Technology including AI-operated machinery, automated feeders and harvesters is being deployed to improve productivity.
The government also plans to introduce hybrid solar energy systems for shrimp farms and gradually involve the private sector.
Officials expect the initiative to create new employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, reduce reliance on imported shrimp and generate additional foreign exchange through exports.
