LAHORE – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced the formal launch of a historic, technology-driven shrimp farming, aquaculture and value chain project in the province, marking a major step towards strengthening the blue economy.
The CM said the industry has officially been launched following the successful completion of a pilot and research-based shrimp farming project conducted on 100 acres of land.
Describing the development as a significant achievement rooted in scientific research, CM Maryam Nawaz stated that the initiative signals the beginning of a new era for the blue economy in Punjab.
She said the project includes the establishment of hatcheries, aqua malls, processing plants, cold storage facilities and an integrated transportation chain to ensure an efficient and sustainable value chain.
The CM announced that by March 2026, shrimp estates covering 5,300 acres will be launched in Muzaffargarh and Sargodha. She added that the project has been developed using global research and development standards and modern aquaculture technologies.
According to CM Maryam Nawaz, international expertise has been incorporated into the project with technical support from specialists of the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Ecuador, Australia and Mexico.
She said the project has entered its implementation phase, with machinery already present at project sites and teams working round the clock to ensure timely completion.
The CM further disclosed that a feasibility study for an additional 2,600 acres is currently underway, adding that the project will be finalized for farmers at the beginning of next year to ensure wider participation and long-term sustainability.
