Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries Options for Sustainable Development © 2018 International Bank for Reconstruction and Development / The World Bank 1818 H Street NW Washington DC 20433 Telephone: 202-473-1000 Internet: www.worldbank.org This work is a product of the staff of The World Bank with external contributions. The findings, interpretations, and conclusions ex- pressed in this work do not necessarily reflect the views of The World Bank, its Board of Executive Directors, or the governments they represent. The World Bank does not guarantee the accuracy of the data included in this work. The boundaries, colors, denominations, and other information shown on any map in this work do not imply any judgment on the part of The World Bank concerning the legal status of any territory or the endorsement or acceptance of such boundaries. Rights and Permissions The material in this work is subject to copyright. Because The World Bank encourages dissemination of its knowledge, this work may be reproduced, in whole or in part, for noncommercial purposes as long as full attribution to this work is given. Any queries on rights and licenses, including subsidiary rights, should be addressed to World Bank Publications, The World Bank Group, 1818 H Street NW, Washington, DC 20433, USA; fax: 202-522-2625; e-mail: pubrights@worldbank.org. Suggested Citation: P. Patil, D. Kaczan, J. Roberts, R. Jabeen, B. Roberts, J. Barbosa, S. Zuberi, T. Huntington, G. Haylor, S. Hussain, C. Brugere, I. Goulding, and M. Dillon, 2018. “Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries: Options for Sustainable Development.” Washington, DC, The World Bank Group and L’Agence Française de Développement. Design by Alejandro Espinosa/SonIdeas Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries Options for Sustainable Development AUTHORS: Pawan Patil Tim Huntington David Kaczan Graham Haylor Julian Roberts Shaukat Hussain Rahat Jabeen Ian Goulding Bradford Roberts Mike Dillon Jorge Guillermo Barbosa Cecile Brugere Saima Zuberi A COLLABORATIVE PARTNERSHIP: (piola666, iStockphoto) v Acknowledgments T  is report was prepared by a World Bank team comprising Pawan Patil (Senior Economist), David Kaczan (Econ- h omist), Julian Roberts (Consultant), Rahat Jabeen (Environmental Specialist), Bradford Roberts (Senior Private Sector Specialist), Jorge Guillermo Barbosa (Consultant), and Saima Zuberi (Private Sector Specialist), along with a consultant team from Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Ltd. comprising Tim Huntington, Graham Hay- lor, Shaukat Hussain, Ian Goulding, Mike Dillon, and Cecile Brugere. The report benefited from close collaboration with staff from L’Agence Française de Développement: Jacky Amprou (Country Director), Marie-Cécile Thiron (Deputy to the Division for Agriculture, Rural Development and Biodiversity), Hélène Gobert (Fishery and Aquaculture Specialist), and Ahsan Paracha (Project Manager). The report similarly ben- efited from collaboration with Badar ul Islam (Programme Officer, SME and Export Development) and Steffen Kaeser (Chief, Standards and Trade Facilitation Division) of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization. The team is very grateful for the support and overall guidance of Arif Ahmed Khan (Secretary, Economic Affairs Divi- sion, Government of Pakistan). The team would also like to thank M. Waseem Khan (Director General, Marine Fisheries Department), and Muhammad Waseem (Chairman, Sindh Planning and Development Board). From the Government of Sindh Fisheries and Livestock Department, the team would like to thank Baqaullah Unnar (Secretary), Sohail Akber Shah (former Secretary), Ghulam Mohammad Mahar (Director General for Fisheries), and Aslam Jarwar (Deputy Direc- tor and Focal Person on the Blue Economy). The team thanks staff at the World Bank including Hart Schafer (Regional Vice President), Illango Patchamuthu (Coun- try Director), Melinda Good (Manager, Operations), Karin Kemper (Senior Director), Julia Bucknall (Director), and Kseni- ya Lvovsky (Practice Manager) for their encouragement, guidance, and support. The report benefited greatly from discussions with participants at the Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries Workshop, Ka- rachi, November 8-9, 2017, including representatives from fisheries departments from all Provinces and Territories. The team thanks the Government of Sindh Fisheries and Livestock Department for its valuable support during this workshop and visits. Constructive comments on the report were received from the following World Bank peer reviewers: Berengere Prince (Lead Natural Resources Management Specialist), Randall Brummett (Senior Fisheries Specialist), and Amjad Bashir Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Acknowledgments vi (Senior Economist). The team acknowledges helpful suggestions from other World Bank staff members Urvashi Nara- in (Lead Environmental Economist), Tijen Arin (Senior Environmental Economist), and Mimako Kobayashi (Senior Nat- ural Resources Economist), and from Antonius Gagern (Senior Associate, California Environmental Associates), Paul Fanning, and Paul Medley (Consultants, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations). The authors are grateful for support from Nimanthi Attapattu (Operations Analyst), Rubina Geizla Quamber (Program Assistant), Ghulam Farid (Program Assistant), and Abdul Qadir (Senior Executive Assistant), of the World Bank. Any errors or omissions are the authors’ own. Graphic design is by Alejandro Espinosa/Sonideas The team gratefully acknowledges the financial support provided by the Pakistan Trade and Investment Policy Pro- gram (P-TIPP) of the World Bank, which is supported by the Government of Australia, and the Umbrella Facility for Gender Equality, which is supported by the Governments of Australia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and United States. Generous financial support from L’Agence Française de Développement and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization is acknowledged with thanks, along with technical support from WorldFish. The team would also like to acknowledge the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the Insti- tute of Marine Research, funded by NORAD, for their support of the Fisheries Resources Appraisal in Pakistan Project, an input into this study. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Acknowledgments vii Executive Summary The Status of Pakistan’s Fisheries Pakistan is the world’s sixth-most populous country, with a population in 2017 of approximately 193 million people and a per-capita income of US$1,629. The poverty rate (US$1.90 per day or less) has de- creased from 13.2 percent of the population in 2007 to an estimated 4.9 percent in 2017-18. However, Pakistan’s human development indicators—education, nutrition, and gender equity, among others—remain low compared to countries globally and to other South Asian nations. This is particularly true in rural areas, home to two thirds of the population, where a large proportion of households are highly dependent on agriculture, fishing, and other natural resources. Pakistan’s fisheries contribute modestly to economic growth and social development. Fisheries account for less than 0.4 percent of GDP. In 2015, marine capture fisheries produced almost 360,000 tons of fish, while inland capture fisheries and aquaculture operations produced a further 132,500 tons and 151,000 tons, respectively. The marine sector is a significant economic pursuit for people along the coasts of Sindh and Balochistan, while small-scale aquaculture and inland capture fisheries are found across the country. Fisheries employ a reported 390,000 people directly, and when secondary jobs such as processing, transporting, and retailing are considered, the number rises to between 900,000 and 1,800,000 jobs in total. Yet Pakistan’s fisheries face challenges and are not achieving their economic potential. The marine capture fishery has experienced a decrease in overall production since the 1990s, and a decrease in per-unit value. A recent stock assessment by the Government of Pakistan and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization found that Pakistan’s marine fisheries are depleted and overfished, and that a continuation of current levels of fishing will seriously undermine production further. The decrease in production has occurred even while total fishing effort (the harvest capacity of the fishing fleet and the time spent fishing) has increased. In addition, costs are high, undermining the sector’s profitability, while the shrinking resource base beneath the water undermines livelihoods in vulnerable, small-scale fishing communities. Aquaculture is also failing to fulfill its potential, despite favorable agro-climatic conditions. While the coun- try has extensive resources of fresh and brackish water, aquaculture in Pakistan is limited in its variety and extent. The industry is dominated by carp, with small quantities of tilapia and trout. Marine and coastal aquaculture, such as shrimp farming, are almost non-existent. Despite good agro-climatic conditions, Pakistan lags its neighbors in aqua- culture production: Bangladesh and India are among the world’s top-five aquaculture-producing countries, while Pakistan ranks 28th. Its aquaculture growth rate of approximately 1.5 percent per year over the past five years is con- siderably slower than rates in India and Bangladesh. Furthermore, Pakistan’s aquaculture growth is well behind these countries’ growth during equivalent periods of their aquaculture industry’s development, despite continued strong global demand. Post-harvest processing is under-developed, contributing to relatively low value addition in the sector. Post-harvest processing in Pakistan is characterized by poor quality control and outdated processing technologies. Much of the sector’s capacity is focused on lower-grade products such as fishmeal. Limited capacity for high-quality and certified processing inhibits access to lucrative export markets. Poor sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) conditions Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Executive Summary viii led the EU to impose an import ban for several years, and continue to partially restrict access in a range of markets. Exports, which have averaged about US$350 million annually in recent years, appear to have plateaued. The Opportunities for Pakistan’s Fisheries Fisheries have an opportunity to become a much stronger engine of economic growth and social devel- opment. The underlying potential of Pakistan’s fisheries and aquatic resources is not reflected in current production, growth, and value. The sector has much more to offer in terms of boosting export revenues, creating decent jobs, supporting livelihoods in coastal communities, improving domestic nutrition and food security, and closing Pakistan’s significant economic gender inequality. The Government of Pakistan recognizes these opportunities, and has signaled its desire to increase the contribution of the fishery sector towards these goals. Global demand for protein-rich fisheries products is rising, providing opportunities for ocean-facing coun- tries such as Pakistan. Fish is the world’s most traded food commodity. Global capture fisheries production in- creased from about 70 million tons in 1970 to 93 million tons in 1990, and has stayed roughly constant since. Global aquaculture has grown from less than 5 million tons in 1970 to 73 million tons in 2014 (FAO 2016a), meeting the continued growth in demand. With world population expected to reach nine billion, and increasing incomes shifting consumption habits towards fish, demand will continue to expand. With this, opportunities for ocean-facing and aquaculture-proficient nations will increase. Improved management of marine resources can help prevent large declines in production. If current trends continue, Pakistan’s major commercial species groups, including demersal and pelagic fish, and shrimps, are pro- jected to decline substantially in total stock size, undermining the valuable harvests that they currently support. An increasing proportion of these harvests will consist of smaller and lower-value individuals. A program to reduce the current levels of overfishing could help reverse these trends, helping to maintain current production quantities, and increasing the value of that production. Too many boats chasing too few fish also leads to high costs, and thus reduc- ing overfishing will also increase profits. Combined gains from increased marine fish production and reduced costs are conservatively estimated to be worth between US$400 million and US$1,200 million over 30 years. Aquaculture presents opportunities to diversify exports away from marine fisheries. Aquaculture is one of the fastest-growing food sectors globally. The experience of neighboring countries shows the potential for Pakistan to contribute to and benefit from this growth. Putting aquaculture on a growth trajectory that matches those of India and Bangladesh would expand the industry to annual production of over 560,000 tons after 10 years, up from the current 151,000 tons. By comparison, current growth rates lead to an only slightly enlarged sector with 183,000 tons of production annually in that time frame. Improving value added in post-harvest value chains is one of the most feasible ways to improve fisheries’ economic contribution. Pakistani fish exporters receive relatively low prices because the majority of their product is unprocessed or targeted towards low-value market segments. High-value markets such as the EU, Japan, and the United States are the world’s biggest markets for seafood, yet at present, they account for less than 3 percent of Pa- kistan’s export earnings from fisheries. With improvements in quality, recognized through international certification, Pakistan’s fisheries could capture a bigger percentage of these markets. In addition to economic benefits, fisheries offer important benefits for food security and nutrition. Pakistan urgently needs improved sources of nutrition: currently 50 percent of women and children (under five years old) are malnourished, and 44 percent of children are stunted physically and cognitively (ILO, 2016). Greater fish consumption, particularly among the poor, could help. Fish is a good source of proteins, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, and is highly beneficial for child development and cognition. Evidence from Bangladesh shows that increased fish produc- tion can increase domestic fish consumption among the poor, via greater availability in local markets, lower prices, and increased incomes. Increasing the production of nutrient-rich small fish, indigenous to Pakistan, could further improve nu- trition outcomes. International experience shows that small fish can be cultivated in homestead ponds, improving Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Executive Summary ix family nutrition as well as household incomes. Small fish do not compete directly with larger cultured fish species, enabling farmers to add value to existing ponds. Rates of return on investment in women-led, nutrient-rich small fish farming range from 1:4 for livelihoods to 1:30 or more when health benefits are considered. The Challenges Facing Pakistan’s Fisheries To derive greater, more sustainable economic value from fisheries, serious challenges must be overcome. A leading challenge is the serious over-exploitation of marine fisheries stocks due to overcapacity in fishing fleets, illegal fishing methods, and lack of surveillance and licensing. A challenge to aquaculture is the systematic deficiencies that currently exist in biosecurity: surveillance, quarantine facilities, and animal health diagnostic capacity are all limited. Pakistan is currently not able to safeguard its own industry or to fulfill international obligations regarding fish diseases, making private investors wary of placing funds in the industry. In post-harvest activities, poor sanitary conditions are common in the supply chain, from landing facilities to processing facilities. Across the industry there is a need for capital investment both for both productive capacity, particularly in aquaculture, and value addition. These and many other problems can be traced to deficiencies in the governance framework. The sector is hampered by institutional rivalries, low budgets, and weak enforcement of what legal and regulatory provisions do exist. Among the varied bodies that provide fisheries management and strategic planning, capacity is limited. The devolution of responsibilities from the Federal to the Provincial and Territorial level—part of wider changes under the constitutional reform process in Pakistan—has made coordination of policies and management more difficult. Management of natural resources needs a more integrated approach. Excessive exploitation, mismanage- ment, and pollution have degraded ecosystems in Pakistan waters, reducing their productivity and endangering resource-dependent livelihoods. One reason is that fisheries management has developed in isolation from other activities: the value of fisheries is recognized, but policy linkages with other sectors, including water management and agriculture, are under-developed. Integration is key to maximizing overall economic benefits while minimizing damage to the environment. There is serious risk to these goals if fishing continues to be managed in isolation. A national policy framework should ensure coordination across the entire fisheries sector. Pakistan can take advantage of earlier policy and strategy development efforts. The 2007 National Policy and Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development in Pakistan remains largely relevant, though it was not adopted at the time due to political transition. If updated and adopted, such a policy strategy could help ensure that activities in different fisheries work in tandem. For example, aquaculture has strong growth potential in the short to medium term, which could provide in- come for rural households, as well as food security and nutrition benefits. In the longer term, improved management of marine fisheries could prevent diminishing harvests and ensure sustainable growth in value and jobs. Impacts from one part of the sector – for instance, aquaculture’s demand for fishmeal, and pressure on coastal habitats – much be managed with the other parts of the sector in mind. A national policy framework is needed to manage such tradeoffs and realize complementarities. The Sustainable Way Forward This report presents a detailed set of actions for addressing the identified challenges and charting a sus- tainable course forward. These are arranged around six key themes: (1) creating an enabling environment for growth, (2) managing marine capture fisheries for long-term sustainability, (3) ensuring sustainable inland capture fisheries, (4) supporting the development of an environmentally sensitive aquaculture industry, (5) improving value chain performance, and (6) optimizing the benefits of a productive fisheries sector for social goals. 1. Creating an enabling environment for growth •• The current governance structure is fragmented. Better-defined roles for existing institutions could improve man- agement outcomes and investor confidence. As mentioned above, an important measure is to update and adopt the National Policy and Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development in Pakistan, prepared in 2007 but not adopted. While Provinces and Territories would still need to develop their own, locally appropriate regulations, this Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Executive Summary x document would guide overall sector development in a nationally cohesive way and help manage tradeoffs and synergies between interlinked components of the fisheries sector. •• Revitalization of the sector will require substantial financial investment for new production, structural adjustment, and value-added activities. Strategic financial support in the form of grants, loans, and guarantees is required, along with systems for efficient and transparent delivery. A system of Fisheries Development Funds (FDFs) could make strategic public investments in infrastructure required to modernize the sector, while crowding-in private-sector financing for investments along the value chain. Investments would be market-driven, yet eligibility criteria would help ensure that social goals are promoted. •• The sector needs investment in skills and training. This could be achieved through increased funding for existing Provincial- and Territorial-level educational institutions, coupled with funding through the FDFs to support new partnerships with the private sector to ensure vocational readiness. This could also be pursued through technolo- gy-driven edu-tech solutions that promote disruptive and scalable skills development in countries that find it hard to mobilize global expertise due to conflict and safety concerns. •• With fish as an important local and global food, there is a need to strengthen food safety and sanitary and phy- tosanitary (SPS) systems, and ensure compliance, to build Pakistan’s access to high-value markets, and reduce the risks that currently discourages private- sector investment. Stronger Federal oversight, and increased capacity in inspections, diagnostic laboratories, border-quarantine facilities, and industry protocols, are necessary. 2. Ensuring the productive and sustainable management of marine fisheries •• As in many other ocean-facing countries, improvements to productivity and sustainability of marine capture fish- eries will require an urgent reduction of overfishing. An effort reduction program and enforced licensing could cut fleet capacity and fishing effort and phase out certain types of vessels. Restrictions on timing and areas of fishing could further protect key habitats and ensure stock recovery. There are various technical approaches to designing such a program, which would be detailed in Fisheries Management Plans (FMPs), informed by a new research framework. The reduction in overfishing could proceed in parallel with compensation for affected operators, or by alternative livelihood programs to ameliorate the costs of adjustment. •• To better nurture fisheries revitalization, improved monitoring, control, and surveillance is essential, so as to pro- tect Pakistan’s fisheries both from unauthorized international and local fishing activities. Better enforcement of existing regulations is as important as introducing new ones. Monitoring, control, and surveillance in fisheries are a multi-jurisdictional affair in Pakistan, and thus a unified cross-government plan of action that clarifies responsi- bilities is an important step. 3. Ensuring the productive and sustainable management of inland capture fisheries •• A review of the incentives created by existing management schemes for inland capture fisheries is needed. Many inland fisheries have low productivity and poor social and livelihood outcomes, partially due to contracting ar- rangements between managers and resource users. Policy options for management systems could be developed on a consultative basis as part of such a review. •• Improved ecosystem management would prevent further degradation of important freshwater resources. Fish yields at Pakistan’s two largest lakes, for instance, have been diminishing, due to pollution and resource misman- agement. Improving yields and livelihoods will require better data collection and research to inform management of ecosystem tradeoffs, and to identify and reduce sources of water pollution. 4. Supporting the development of an environmentally sensitive aquaculture industry •• Aquaculture faces risks that must be averted to encourage private sector investment and ensure that inadvertent costs do not outweigh benefits of growth. A system of spatial planning could reduce risks. Detailed mapping of where aquaculture development should be permitted would avoid environmentally costly impacts on mangroves and water supplies, and ensure optimal use of existing infrastructure such as roads and export facilities. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Executive Summary xi •• The quarantine and certification system also need strengthening to reduce biosecurity hazards. This would require upgrades to aquatic animal health laboratories, stronger certification measures, and better inspection facilities at ports of entry. Institutional changes, such as nominating and empowering a focal-point biosecurity institution at the Federal level, might also help. Greater engagement with international organizations that deal with aquaculture biosecurity and food safety risks is also recommended. •• Deeper extension service would foster development of the industry. Aquaculture extension in Pakistan primarily takes place at the Provincial and Territorial level, through largely unlinked institutions. Institutional coordination, upgraded curricula, and learning from other countries’ successes could increase productivity. This should be sup- ported through increased research, undertaken jointly by the public and private sectors. 5. Improving value chain performance •• Investment in infrastructure and services is needed to support firms’ efforts to increase the value of their product, deliver quality to consumers, and compete internationally. Investments should focus on infrastructure and ser- vices that supports a wide range of fishing enterprises along the value chain. Investments could be used to create “competitiveness clusters”, sites of co-located fisheries-related firms. Over time, the co-location of businesses drives productivity through the sharing of facilities and export services, and through peer-learning. Similarly, investments in fish markets can improve SPS conditions and help bring buyers and sellers together in ways that improves value. •• Productivity and competitiveness should also be improved through investments in training, benchmarking, certi- fication schemes, and codes of practice (COPs). New markets should be developed through outreach, promotion and market-analysis to increase demand for Pakistan’s improved fish products. 6. Optimizing the benefits of a productive fisheries sector to advance social goals •• Investments and improvements in fisheries should benefit both large export-oriented firms and small-scale oper- ators. There is also a need to ensure that polices disproportionately benefit poorer households and women. This could be achieved by encouraging FDF investments towards activities that employ or are led by women, which tend to be in post-harvest phase. Extension activities and financial support oriented towards small-scale home- stead aquaculture could also help. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Executive Summary xii Table of contents Acknowledgments v Executive Summary vii Acronyms Used xv CHAP T ER 1 Introduction and purpose of report 16 1.1. Background 17 1.2. Purpose and Scope of this Report 17 CHAP T ER 2 The status of the fisheries sector 20 2.1. Overview 21 2.2. Status of Marine Capture Fisheries 22 2.3. Status of Inland Capture Fisheries 24 2.4. Status of Aquaculture 25 2.5. Status of Post-Harvest Processing 28 2.6. Status of Markets and Trade 31 2.7. Status of the Fisheries Governance Framework 34 CHAP T ER 3 Opportunities for the fisheries sector 40 3.1. Overview 41 3.2. Opportunities from Sustainable Conservation of Marine Resources 41 3.3. Opportunities from Aquaculture Development 45 3.4. Opportunities from Enhanced Fish Processing and Exports 47 3.5. Opportunities to Improve Food Security and Nutrition 47 CHAP T ER 4 Critical challenges and needs in the fisheries sector 50 4.1. Challenges in Marine Capture Fisheries 51 4.2. Challenges in Inland Fisheries 54 4.3. Challenges in Aquaculture Development 54 4.4. Challenges in Post-Harvest Activities 56 Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Table of contents xiii 4.5. Challenges in Market Access and Trade Competitiveness 57 4.6. Sanitary and Health Barriers to Trade in the Fishery Sector 59 4.7. Managing Trade-Offs between Capture and Culture Fisheries 62 4.8. Climate Change Impacts on the Fishing Sector 63 4.9. Gender Inequality within the Fishing Sector 64 CHAP T ER 5 Summary and recommendations 66 5.1. Structure and Approach 67 5.2. Recommendations: Enabling Environment 70 5.3. Recommendations: Marine Capture Fisheries 75 5.4. Recommendations: Inland Capture Fisheries 80 5.5. Recommendations: Aquaculture 82 5.6. Recommendations: Value Chain Performance 87 5.7. Recommendations: Optimizing Benefits 88 Reference list 93 ANNEX 1: FISHERIES MODELLING METHOD 97 5.1. Data 97 5.2. Bioeconomic Model 97 5.3. Policy Scenarios 98 ANNEX 2: SUMMARY OF POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS 99 L IS T OF F IGURES Figure 1: Pakistan’s Fisheries Production, 1950 to 2015 21 Figure 2: Number of Marine Fishing Vessels by Type 24 Figure 3: Areas of Current and Potential Aquaculture in Pakistan 27 Figure 4: Fish Exports by Value from Pakistan 32 Figure 5: Institutional Map of Fisheries-Related Governance in Pakistan 35 Figure 6: The Three Marine Fisheries Zones of Pakistan 36 Figure 7: Projected Biomass for Commercial Species Groups Relative to Current Size Under Status Quo (Constant 2014) Effort Levels, Using Median Stock Parameter Estimates 41 Figure 8: Fishing Yields, Concordant with Stable Stock Levels under Different Levels of Long- Term Effort 42 Figure 9: Projected Annual Revenue under Different Levels of Long-Term Equilibrium Effort 43 Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Table of contents xiv Figure 10: Projected Aquaculture Production Based on the Annual Average Growth Rate of Aquaculture in Bangladesh and India (at Equivalent Stages of Sector Development) 45 Figure 11: Pathways for the Impact of Fisheries on Food Security and Nutrition 48 Figure 12: Policy areas addressed by the recommendations 68 L IS T OF TABLES Table 1: Comparison of Fish Production of Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, and Myanmar in 2014 22 Table 2: Major Species Groups in Marine Capture Production in 2015 23 Table 3: Fishing Gear Used in Pakistan’s Marine Fisheries 23 Table 4: An Overview of Current Aquaculture Practices and Experimental Technologies 26 Table 5: Fishery Export Product Categories Scaled According to Their Value Addition Potentials 29 Table 6: Supply Balance and Estimated Per Capita Fish Consumption 32 Table 7: Top 20 Export Markets for Pakistan Fishery Products 33 Table 8: Total Net Present Value across 13 Species Groups, Over 30 Years (2014 US$ Millions) 44 Table 9: Comparison of Shrimp Production and Exports—Pakistan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and India 46 Table 10: Decline in Commercial Fish Production from Keenjhar Lake 55 Table 11: Decline in Number of Fishers and Boats on Keenjhar Lake 55 Table 12: Examples of Certification Types Typically Required of Shrimp Farmers and Exporters 58 Table 13: Changes that Could Help Improve Market Access and Competitiveness 60 Table 14: Summary of Specific Development Objectives (SDOs) and Results Areas 69 Table 15: A Summary of Proposed Fisheries Development Fund Investments and Activities 72 Table A - 1: Policy Scenario Descriptions 98 L IS T OF BOXES Box 1: Potential of Soybean Meal as a Protein Replacement in Fish Feeds 28 Box 2: Aquaculture Development Activities 29 Box 3: Fishing Harbor Infrastructure in Pakistan 30 Box 4: Improving Food Safety Conditions 31 Box 5: Fishmeal Production and Impact on Fishing Sector Value Addition 31 Box 6: Multilateral Environmental Agreements Relating to the Marine Environment to Which Pakistan Is a Party 38 Box 7: The Potential for Improved Nutrition through Small-Fish Polyculture 48 Box 8: The Decline of the Manchar and Keenjhar Lakes 55 Box 9: Seafood Clusters to Improve Competitiveness 59 Box 10: EU Sanctions over Poor Sanitation Conditions 61 Box 11: Vulnerability of Rural Fishing Communities to Climate Change 64 Box 12: Women and the FAO Small-Scale Fisheries Guidelines 65 Box 13: Main Components of a Fisheries Management Plan (FMP) 75 Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Table of contents xv Acronyms Used AAH Aquatic Animal Health AFD L’Agence Française de Développement AQD Animal Quarantine Department CCRF Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries CDFD Coastal Development and Fisheries Department CPUE Catch per Unit of Effort DoF Department of Fisheries EAF Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries EEZ Exclusive Economic Zone FAO Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations FDB Fisheries Development Board FDC Fisheries Development Commissioner FMP Fisheries Management Plan FRAPP Fisheries Resource Appraisal in Pakistan Project GDP Gross Domestic Product HACCP Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point ICT Information and Communications Technology ILO International Labour Organization IOTC Indian Ocean Tuna Commission IUCN International Union for the Conservation of Nature IUU Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (fishing) MCS Monitoring, Control, and Surveillance MFD Marine Fisheries Department MINFAL Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Livestock (disbanded in 2010) MNFSR Ministry of National Food Security and Research MPA Marine Protected Area MSY Maximum Sustainable Yield NGO Non-Governmental Organization NIO National Institute of Oceanography NPOA National Plan of Action OIE Office International des Epizooties PBS Pakistan Bureau of Statistics PMSA Pakistan Maritime Security Authority PNAC Pakistan National Accreditation Council RECOFI Regional Commission for Fisheries Rs. Pakistan Rupee (€1 = c. 123 Rs.; US$1 = c. 115 Rs.) SME Small and Medium Enterprises SPS Sanitary and phytosanitary TBT Technical Barriers to Trade TED Turtle Excluder Device TRTA Trade-Related Technical Assistance UNIDO United Nations Industrial Development Organization VMS Vessel Monitoring System Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Acronyms Used Chapter 1 Introduction and purpose of report Karakoram Range, Gilgit Baltistan, (Skazzjy, iStockphoto) 17 levels of overfishing could preserve the productivity of 1.1. Background the marine resource for future generations. Adoption Pakistan is the world’s sixth-most populous coun- of a national policy framework could help coordinate try, with approximately 193 million people in 2017 development, ensuring that tradeoffs are minimized and a per-capita income of US$1,629. The poverty and complementarities are realized among interlinked rate (US$1.90 per day or less) has decreased from 13.2 sector components. Improvements to biosecurity and percent of the population in 2007 to an estimated 4.9 food safety systems could help Pakistan gain access to percent in 2017-18. However, Pakistan’s human devel- lucrative international markets, and reduce risks that opment indicators—education, nutrition, and gender hold back private investment. Fisheries could also bring equity, among others—remain low compared to coun- considerable benefits for human health and nutrition. tries globally and to other South Asian nations. This is Fish is a source of proteins, healthy fats, and essential particularly true in rural areas, home to two thirds of the nutrients—all extremely valuable in the context of Paki- population, where a large proportion of households are stan’s high level of malnutrition and childhood stunting highly dependent on agriculture, fishing, and other nat- (World Bank 2015). ural resources. The time is right for Pakistan to launch a “Blue Pakistan is endowed with fishery resources that Revolution” where increased fisheries production, have significant potential to make a bigger con- both captured and cultured, and improved val- tribution to economic growth and social develop- ue-addition drive both domestic and export-ori- ment. The Arabian Sea is one of the most biologically ented growth. Such “blue growth” prioritizes the sus- productive areas in the world, and the country’s exclu- tainable management of natural aquatic resources in sive economic zone (EEZ) in these waters has recently the delivery of economic and social benefits. It minimiz- been extended. Inland are numerous productive wa- es environmental degradation, biodiversity loss, and the terways, and substantial area and suitable agro-climatic unsustainable use of resources, while maximizing the conditions for aquaculture. Globally, demand for pro- economic and social benefits that build strong commu- tein-rich fisheries products continues to rise, providing nities. The approach also aims to help workers in fisher- opportunities for ocean-facing countries such as Paki- ies, aquaculture, and along the seafood value chain to stan. With the world population continuing to climb, act not only as resources users but to play an active role and increasing incomes shifting fish consumption hab- in managing natural resources for the benefit of future its, demand for fish will continue to grow. With it, op- generations (FAO 2015a). portunities for ocean-facing and aquaculture-proficient nations will increase. 1.2. Purpose and Scope of this Pakistan’s fisheries contribute to economic growth Report and social development, but their full potential is not being realized. The sector currently produces an The World Bank, with partner organizations estimated US$650 million of fish annually, equivalent L’Agence Française De Développement (AFD) and to about 0.4 percent of GDP, and employs a report- the United Nations Industrial Development Orga- ed 390,000 people directly. Yet parts of the sector are nization (UNIDO), is supporting Pakistan’s aspira- struggling: the marine capture fishery has suffered a tions to achieve blue growth. This report underpins decrease in production and per-unit value due to over- this support. It provides an overview of current context fishing over the past two decades (Fanning et al. 2016). and opportunities, a technical analysis of impediments, The aquaculture industry is growing only slowly, and and recommendations for ways forward. The report lacks crucial planning and governance arrangements. covers the entire fisheries sector in Pakistan, including Post-harvest processing of fish is hampered by poor marine and inland capture fisheries, aquaculture, and quality control and outdated technologies, and much the post-harvest value chain. processing capacity is focused on lower-grade products such as fishmeal. The focus of the report is primarily technical, yet it recognizes that fisheries issues have important The right reforms could unlock far greater benefits. political implications. Some of these arise from the Strategic investments and improved governance could structural reforms and devolution of power undertak- put the sector on a sustainable and value-adding tra- en as part of the 2010 Eighteenth Amendment to the jectory. Urgent action to prevent the present damaging Constitution of Pakistan. Others political issues grow Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development 18 from the fact that fisheries reforms can change access the existing fisheries governance arrangements in- to natural resources, and thus impact livelihoods and cluding current policy and legal framework and in- asset values. There are thus winners and losers. The po- stitutional arrangements. litical implications of reforms will need to be considered by Pakistan’s decision makers, who should ensure that •• Part Three provides an analysis of the potential ben- changes lead to an equitable distribution of the gains efits that could be realized through a revitalization of of sector growth, as well as the costs of that growth. To Pakistan’s fishery sector. maintain a focus on technical issues, this report does •• Part Four gives an analysis of the challenges to real- not address issues of politics directly. izing these benefits. The report is the result of detailed research and •• Part Five describes specific activities necessary to consultation, which included review of literature, overcome the challenges identified in Part Four. It original analysis of fisheries data, and extensive provides recommendations within six themes: (1) meetings with people from the Federal Govern- creating an enabling environment for growth, (2) ment, Provincial Governments, the private sector, managing marine capture fisheries for long-term and non-government and international organiza- sustainability, (3) ensuring sustainable inland cap- tions. Consultations were roughly evenly divided across ture fisheries, (4) supporting the development of an capture fisheries, culture fisheries, and cross-cutting is- environmentally sensitive aquaculture industry, (5) sues. The findings are organized in four remaining sec- improving value chain performance, and (6) opti- tions: mizing the benefits of a productive fisheries sector for social goals •• Part Two provides an overview of the current state of fisheries in Pakistan. Information on fisheries’ con- The result is an in-depth examination of the con- tribution to the economy, production trends, and straints that Pakistan’s fisheries sector faces, and a fishing practices for marine, inland, and aquaculture set of policy actions that provides a road map for is presented. Part two also provides an overview of its revitalization. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 1. Introduction and purpose of report Chapter 2 The status of the fisheries sector The Arabian Sea off the Pakistan coast (Khalid Bin Ismail, Shutterstock) 21 ter bodies. It produced about 132,500 tons of fish in 2.1. Overview 2015. Marine fisheries are a significant economic activ- ity off the coasts of Sindh and Balochistan, while 3. A relatively small but expanding aquaculture indus- aquaculture and inland capture fisheries are found try, dominated by carp, but with growing tilapia pro- in all provinces of Pakistan. Fisheries production to- duction and supplemented by trout production in tals about 620,000 tons annually (FAO 2016b) has an the hills. Aquaculture produced about 151,000 tons estimated market value of US$650 million, but a consid- of fish in 2015, mostly through traditional semi-in- erable proportion, particularly from inland subsectors, is tensive polyculture methods, that is, the raising of not commercially traded. Approximately 17 percent of multiple non-competing fish species in the same total production is sold to foreign markets, generating pond. Punjab and Sindh Provinces are the dominant US$350 million annually in export earnings. aquaculture producers. Pakistan’s fisheries are characterized by a wide va- Fisheries currently contribute only 0.4 percent of riety of species, vessel and equipment types, and gross domestic product (GDP), and the sector’s ap- approaches to management. The industry consists of proximately US$350 million of exports appears to the following three sub-sectors (Figure 1): have plateaued. Comparisons to other countries in the region suggest that Pakistan is failing to fully realize the 1. A marine capture fishery comprising a fleet of around potential of its capture and culture fisheries sectors (Ta- 3,600 bottom trawlers from Sindh, 5,550 gillnetters ble 1), with much lower production in all fishery sectors working both the Sindh and Balochistan waters, and in absolute terms, as well as in terms of proportion of a further 20,000 smaller vessels fishing coastal wa- GDP and maritime area. ters, especially the rich Indus Delta and creek area. In 2015, marine capture fisheries landed about 360,000 Sindh has Pakistan’s most varied fishing activi- tons of fish (about 73 percent of capture production ties, including coastal fishing, marine fishing, and and 56 percent of total fish production) into the main inland fishing in the Indus River and associated ports of Karachi, Gwadar, and Pasni, and employed streams, as well as in a large number of lakes. Fish- about 204,000 people. ing in Balochistan is primarily marine, due to its long coastline and limited inland water bodies. In Punjab, 2. An inland fresh water capture fishery in reservoirs, fishing is concentrated around the abundance of rivers, lakes, canals, and the Indus River that involves about canals, lakes, and dams. Fishing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 56,000 people, much of it carried out in leased wa- and Gilgit Baltistan has lesser economic importance due Figure 1: Pakistan’s Fisheries Production, 1950 to 2015 800,000 700,000 600,000 Production (tons) 500,000 400,000 300,000 200,000 100,000 0 1950 1952 1954 1956 1958 1960 1962 1964 1968 1970 1972 1974 1976 1978 1980 1982 1984 1986 1988 1990 1992 1994 1996 1998 2000 2002 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2014 1966 Marine Capture Fisheries Aquaculture Inland Capture Fisheries Source: FAO 2016b. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 2. The status of the fisheries sector 22 Table 1: Comparison of Fish Production of Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, and Myanmar in 2014 Annual production (tons) Sector Pakistan Bangladesh India Myanmar Inland fisheries 276,501 2,821,266 6,181,000 2,462,750 Capture 128,235 961,458 1,300,000 1,463,120 Aquaculture 148,266 1,859,808 4,881,000 999,630 Marine fisheries 346,841 588,988 3,414,821 2,854,200 Total 623,342 3,410,254 9,592 821 316 950 Source: FAO 2016b. to the colder climate and mountainous terrain. Fishing and unicellular organisms that together form a food there is primarily for local consumption and recreation. chain for fish. The Indus River is the sixth largest riv- Aquaculture, meanwhile, is largely concentrated in Pun- er in the world and boasts one of the largest gravi- jab, Sindh, and to a lesser extent in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. ty-based canal irrigation systems. Of its total length of 2,800 km, 2,682 km lies in Pakistan. The river is Fisheries have a strong linkage with, and depen- critical for Pakistan’s 193 million people, irrigating 80 dence on, natural resources and their associated percent of their 21.5 million hectares of agricultural ecosystem services. The following ecosystems play a land. The river watershed is an area of rich biodiversi- critical role in supporting fisheries: ty, with the Indus River Delta being particularly pro- ductive for fish. 4. Coastal ecosystems consist of mangroves, estuar- ies, salt marshes, seagrass beds, coral reefs, and mud- flats, and serve as vital areas for fish spawning. For 2.2. Status of Marine Capture fisheries and the communities that depend on them, the most important components are mangroves and Fisheries estuaries. In the Indus Delta, mangrove forests cov- Pakistan’s marine fisheries are diverse, with almost er approximately 600,000 hectares and constitute 250 demersal fish species, 50 small pelagic fish a critical ecosystem. The forests provide important species, 15 medium-sized pelagic species, and 20 breeding habitat for commercially important marine large pelagic fish species. The main fisheries include fish, shrimps, lobsters, and crabs. They are almost en- shrimp trawl, tuna, industrial deep-sea, small-scale de- tirely  dependent upon freshwater discharges from mersal, and small pelagics. Much of the fish landed is the Indus River. intended for domestic consumption, which is highest in coastal towns and cities that have landing sites. The In- 5. Freshwater wetland ecosystems consist of lakes dus River Delta and its associated ecosystems make the that have aquatic vegetation and large invertebrate coast of Sindh the most productive region of Pakistan’s and unicellular organisms that serve as food for marine fisheries. many types of fish. Sindh has the largest freshwater lakes in the country, namely Manchar, Keenjhar, and Marine fish production peaked in the 1990s, de- Haleji (see Box 8). Wetland ecosystems depend on clined in the early 2000s, and has been stable at water quantity and quality to maintain their ecolog- about 350,000 tons per year since 2005 (Figure 1). ical functions. Lakes provide numerous benefits for Particularly valuable target species include shrimps, of communities, including food and income for fishers, which about 22,000 tons are caught each year. Two oth- nursery grounds for fish, maintenance of water qual- er major catch groups, in terms of total biomass caught, ity and abatement of pollution, freshwater for rural are demersal fish and small pelagic fish (Table 2). and urban people, maintenance of ground water, flood abatement and erosion control, and recreation Pakistan now has more than 29,000 marine fishing and tourism opportunities. vessels in total (although not all are active), with about 130,000 full-time and 75,000 part-time em- 6. Riverine ecosystems consist of river tracts and em- ployees. The fleet is divided roughly two thirds in Sindh bankments. They contain sediment, riverine forests, and one third in Balochistan. Almost 70 percent of it is Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 2. The status of the fisheries sector 23 Table 2: Major Species Groups in Marine Capture Production in 2015 Species group Production (tons) Pelagic fish (e.g. mackerel, herrings, sardines, anchovy, and hilsa shad) 175,165 Demersal fish (e.g. groupers, snappers, pomfrets, bream, grunters, and croakers) 105,532 Other marine fish 38,595 Crustaceans (shrimp, prawns, crabs, and lobsters) 26,588 Cephalopods (octopus, squid, and cuttlefish) 10,080 Mollusks (excluding cephalopods) 3,048 Total 359,008 Source: FAO 2016b. Table 3: Fishing Gear Used in Pakistan’s Marine Fisheries Gear type Sindh Balochistan Total Industrial trawlers 3,612 - 3, 612 12% Gillnetters 3,458 2,103 5, 561 19% Handlines 7,395 74 7, 469 26% Encircling nets 5,268 7,197 12, 465 43% Total 19,733 (88%) 9,374 (42%) 29,107 (100%) Source: pers. comm. Marine Fisheries Department (MFD) 2017 small vessels with outboard motors (often assisted by of the trips have increased since 2010 for the larger sails), with the rest being larger gillnetters or trawlers. vessel classes. The smaller vessels use handlines and encircling nets, while trawlers use bottom otter trawls and gillnetters The biomass of virtually all the demersal stocks use larger mesh gillnets. Only Sindh has a trawl fleet, has fallen during the past 30 years. The overall con- because trawling is banned in Balochistan Province (Ta- clusion of the Fisheries Resource Appraisal in Pakistan ble 3). The fishing fleet is concentrated in Karachi, Sindh, Project (FRAPP), the first definitive stock assessment in and Gwadar and Pasni, Balochistan. Pakistan’s EEZ in several decades, was that the majority of Pakistan’s fish stocks are overfished. Nine of the four- The marine fishery can be characterized as “open teen major species groups are already depleted. Only access”, with few mechanisms in place to control two species groups show any indication that fishing fishing. While numbers are imprecise due to data lim- mortality is at or below the limit required to maximize itations, available records suggest that between 2008 yields. This situation is directly linked to the steadily and 2016, marine fishing vessel numbers increased growing fishing capacity and effort. by around 3 percent per annum. Inshore mechanized In addition, FRAPP showed that: and sail boat numbers rose by 4 percent per annum, gillnetters1 by 3 percent, and trawlers2 by 2.5 percent. 1. Composition of the catches in fish size has tended These figures reflect numbers of vessels, rather than toward smaller species, and toward smaller individu- absolute fishing capacity, and given that new vessels als within species groups. Larger species of groupers, are likely to be more powerful than those they re- sharks, and croakers were not present in abundance, place, overall fishing effort3 may have increased by 5 in contrast to earlier surveys. No large sharks, rays, and percent or more per year over the past decade (Figure guitarfishes were seen, with very few smaller shark 2). There is evidence the existing fleet is more active: and ray species caught either. Larger specimens of both the numbers of trips per year and the duration some common species such as grouper, croakers, 1 A narrow mesh fishing net which is hung vertically so that fish are trapped by their gills. 2 A vessel that tows a fishing trawl net and hauls the catch up a stern ramp. 3 “Fishing effort” is a function of the numbers of vessels, the size and sophistication of the equipment aboard, the type and amount of fishing gear deployed, and the amount of time expended. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 2. The status of the fisheries sector 24 Figure 2: Number of Marine Fishing Vessels by Type 14,000 12,000 10,000 Operational Vessels (number) 8,000 6,000 4,000 2,000 0 1993 1996 199 2002 2005 2008 2011 2014 Trawlers Gillnetters Sail boats/outboard motors Standardized Effort Units Source: Vessel numbers from pers. comm. MFD 2017 and standardized effort data from Fanning et al. 2016. catfish, and ribbonfish were not encountered at all. they are of relatively low value, with a very large portion This is concerning given that the economic value of suitable only for fishmeal production. fisheries is strongly linked to the size of individual fish, with the largest sizes being most valuable. The FRAPP and other research notwithstanding, data on marine fisheries in Pakistan are generally 2. Evidence is arising of ecological changes linked to limited. The Marine Fisheries Department (MFD) un- excessive fishing pressure and environmental deg- dertakes research specifically on fisheries, while the Na- radation. For example, opportunistic, fast-growing, tional Institute of Oceanography (NIO) works on marine and small species such as threadfin bream and liz- biology, oceanography, and geology. The department’s ardfish are growing in abundance, consistent with activities include biological research on commercial fish disturbed ecosystem structure due to the absence species, length-frequency analysis of landings, and con- of larger species of top predators. Similarly, there sultation with industry regarding fish mesh selectivity. are large catches of cephalopods (squids and cut- However, considerable research and data gaps remain, tlefish), another fast-growing and opportunistic such as on the number of active vessels. Data currently group, another indication of habitat and ecosys- collected on landings are insufficiently detailed in terms tem disturbance. The abundant presence of jelly- of species, fleet, and spatial parameters to allow detailed fish further likewise suggests a heavily disturbed stock assessment and scientific advice for fisheries man- resource system. These species are important pred- agement.4 ators of juvenile fish and shrimp and may interfere with rebuilding stocks of commercially valuable species. 2.3. Status of Inland Capture Fisheries These findings are consistent with earlier surveys. Pakistan’s most valuable demersal fisheries resourc- Inland capture fisheries produced about 130,000 es (snappers, groupers, grunters, croakers, soles, and tons in 2015, 21 percent of Pakistan’s total. Inland shrimp) have been declining in overall abundance since fishing, which in many regions is a traditional practice, at least 1984, in some cases by 90 percent or more. In is undertaken in rivers, irrigation canals, and reservoirs, addition, although landings of these species continue, and generally serves subsistence needs. About 30 spe- 4 One exception is data collection for tuna, where a WWF crew-based observer program has reported length, catch, and effort data for tuna gillnetters (IOTC 2017). The data revealed that the catch of tuna was previously underreported. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 2. The status of the fisheries sector 25 cies5 are commercially fished, including several exotic permission to fish in return for a proportion of their species of tilapia, carp, and trout. Unlike with marine catch or earnings. fisheries, 90 percent of fish caught from inland waters are consumed locally. This trend is expected to contin- To maintain inland fisheries, water bodies are re- ue, with the inland population likely to consume any stocked by fisheries departments or by fishing con- increase in inland fish production in coming decades. tractors. There are 16 large and 30 small public-sector carp hatcheries, as well as eight seed nursing farms An estimated 186,000 people take part in inland associated with restocking activities. Much of this in- fishing in Pakistan, many of them very poor. For frastructure was developed by the Asian Development example, more than 60 percent of fishing households Bank (ADB) for aquaculture development programs in communities in the Indus Ecoregion are living be- during the 1980s. low the poverty line (WWF 2015), equivalent to about US$60 per month. For many fishers, loans (at high in- terest rates) are essential to smoothing out household 2.4. Status of Aquaculture consumption across the season. Aquaculture is an increasingly important compo- nent of Pakistan’s fishing sector, producing approx- Inland fisheries are managed in different ways, by imately 150,000 tons of fish annually. Most produc- different organizations, depending on the types tive capacity has been developed only since 2000, and of aquatic resources and the Province or Territory. aquaculture remains a nascent industry in many parts Government bodies involved in inland fisheries man- of Pakistan, particularly compared to neighboring coun- agement include the Punjab Forestry Wildlife and Fish- tries. For decades, semi-intensive composite carp cul- eries Department (for rivers, lakes, and some reservoirs ture, mainly undertaken in Punjab and Sindh, has been in Punjab), the Sindh Department of Fisheries (for inland the slowly growing mainstay of the industry. Fish culture lakes, ponds, depressions, and the Indus River in Sindh), in earthen ponds, reservoirs, and community ponds was the Mini Dams Department (for small dams on private initiated in the late 1960s by the provincial fisheries de- land in rain-fed areas), the Small Dams Department (for partments. From the 1980s onwards, polyculture of In- small dams on public land), and the Water and Power dian and Chinese carps was carried out in Punjab and Development Authority (for large dams such as the Sindh and to a lesser extent in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Mangla dam). Balochistan. More recently, carp farming has started to move beyond systems that use supplementary feeds Currently, most inland capture fisheries operate to more intensive, economically efficient systems using under a contract system by which rights to fish in floating pellets. There is some trout farming in hillier ar- public water bodies are auctioned off. These leasing eas in the north. Commercial-scale marine and coastal and licensing mechanisms aim to contribute to fisheries aquaculture, such as shrimp farming, is non-existent. management as well as generate revenue. Incentivized by strict revenue targets, the Punjab Government auc- For now, Pakistan is producing only limited fish tions the rights to more than 400 water bodies. Flowing species in aquaculture, but is experimenting with water systems are leased on an annual basis, and static broadening the selection (Table 4 and Figure 3). systems on a three-year basis. In Sindh, the lease system In recent years, tilapia farming has developed, first for large water bodies has been replaced by a license with imported seed and now with domestically pro- system for individual fishers. However, this regime does duced seed from public and private hatcheries. Small not provide incentives for long-term management, in- tonnages of shrimp and sea bass are being raised ex- cluding the restocking of water bodies with young fish. perimentally. Sub-contracting of inland fisheries is not permit- Neighboring countries have much larger aqua- ted, but is reported to happen nonetheless. Bidding culture sectors than Pakistan. Bangladesh has simi- in the auctions requires substantial capital, restricting lar fish fauna and level of economic development, but participation to the relatively well-off. Individual fishers produces about ten times more fish from inland sources may then go to work for a winning contractor, or receive despite having fresh water resources that are around 5 These include Labeo rohita, L. dyocheilus, Catla catla, Cirrhinus mrigala, C. reba, Channa striatus, C. marulius, Aorichthys (Mystus) seenghala, A. (M.) aor, Wallago attu, Rita rita, Bagarius bagarius, Tenualosa ilisha, Notopterus notopterus, Tor putitora, Schizothorax spp., and Clupisoma nazirri (Petr 1999). Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 2. The status of the fisheries sector 26 Table 4: An Overview of Current Aquaculture Practices and Experimental Technologies Carp Trout Tilapia Shrimp Sea bass Production •• The dominant •• Both rainbow and •• Farming of •• There is currently no •• There is currently no aquaculture species brown trout are genetically improved commercial shrimp commercial sea bass across Pakistan farmed in Pakistan. Tilapia currently production. Limited production. •• Annual production •• Annual production produces around experimental •• Present activity of approximately of approximately 3,000 tons annually. production currently is focused on 120,000 tons 300 tons •• Seed for the growing yields 50-80 tons experimental •• Mainly in Sindh, •• Primarily in the tilapia market is annually. growing in cages and Punjab, and KP northern areas expanding in the •• Initial production pens. provinces public and private costs are high and sector, with sex will need to come reversed, all-male down to make seed as the key shrimp a viable farm market. crop. Development •• Production is •• A small amount of •• Small industry, a lot •• Currently •• Currently highly stage mainly traditional intensive rearing of of interest in all male experimental only experimental only semi-intensive trout is practiced in production •• A joint venture •• Has potential for a polyculture. commercial raceways •• Shorter growing between high-value product •• No intensive culture in mountain areas. season in Punjab the Fisheries but it is reliant on currently exists in •• Some live fish are (due to temperature) Development Board marine fishmeal as a Pakistan and the transported to •• Fry available earlier (FDB) and the feed source productivity of carp Punjab. in Sindh due to private sector using farms shows marked longer growing imported seed and differences across season feed provinces. Current issues •• 30% of producers •• Current trout feed •• Tilapia culture is •• Globally 60% of •• FDB imported seed. have shifted to market of several currently undertaken disease losses in •• Testing in pelleted feed hundred tons is alongside carp shrimp culture are Balochistan has sea systems resulting in: supplied by two polyculture. caused by viral bass reaching one •• Fewer fish kills Punjabi suppliers. •• The growing season pathogens. kilogram in one year, •• Slightly higher cost in Punjab is currently •• Pakistan has little grown in polyculture efficiency quite short due to capacity for viral with carp, or in sea •• Larger-size product lower temperature, diagnostics. cages or pens. which is valued by allowing for only a •• Shrimp imports local consumers single crop. for aquaculture •• More intensive per •• In Sindh, two crops should follow a unit area are possible. precautionary approach given environmental and disease risks. Market •• The domestic market •• There is currently no •• The current domestic •• Growth in the Chinese population, increasing development is saturated and export market due market targets 700- due to the developing China-Pakistan there is currently no to high production 750 g fish (in Punjab) Economic Corridor, may create a ready market export market. costs. and 900 g fish (in for new aquaculture products. •• Pakistan has •• Local target markets Sindh) previously supplied include retailers •• The export market the local west Asian and restaurants is currently limited market but this is in Abbottabad, due to low prices on currently constrained Islamabad, Karachi, the Asian market by conflict. Lahore, and resulting from high Peshawar. Chinese production. •• The currently small domestic market could be boosted by better cold chain facilities and expanded live fish transport. Source: Compiled by authors. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 2. The status of the fisheries sector 27 Figure 3: Areas of Current and Potential Aquaculture in Pakistan 65° 70° TA J I K I S TA N CHINA PROVINCE & TERRITORY CAPITALS 0 100 200 300 KILOMETERS NATIONAL CAPITAL Gilgit: Trout aquaculture, 0 50 100 150 200 KILOMETERS three hatcheries, and ten DISTRICT BOUNDARIES ar farms n Ku PROVINCE & TERRITORY BOUNDARIES KHYBER INTERNATIONAL BOUNDARIES PAKHTUNKHWA Mangla dam: 800–1,000 KPK: (DIR, Kohat, Mardan, Swabi, tonnes of production Indu and Abbotabad Districts): Seven carp s us hatcheries, six trout hatcheries, Swat R. I nd 60° trout training centre, Peshawar carp Azad Jammu and training centre. Kashmir: Six trout hatcheries 35° FEDERALLY ADMINISTERED Peshawar Approximate 35° Line of Control TRIBAL AREAS ISLAMABAD Jammu AFGHANISTAN FATA: Two trout and Kashmir hatcheries FED. CAP. TERR. ISLAMABAD lu m Jhe Lahore PUNJAB Balochistan: (Nasirbad, Jhal Magsi, Zhob vi Ra Ja erbad and Sohbatpur Districts) 30° Carp farming in irrigated eastern districts. Quetta 30° tlej Su Punjab: Sheikhpura, Gujranwala, Attock, and Muzarfagarh Districts): Includes ve feed us producers,. three training centres, The Fisheries I nd ResearchRand Training Centre, and large areas BALOCHISTAN of sh farming. Species include carp, tilapia, I S L AM I C trout, macrobrachiu, with experimental cat sh culture R E P. Canal OF IRAN l Na Nara 25° Sindh: (Thatta, Badin, and Dadu Districts): SINDH Fish farming takes place on waterlogged oodplains. Species include carp and 25° tilapia, with farms in saline areas experimenting with shrimp and sea bass. Balochistan coast: This coastline of around 670 Karachi INDIA km has an arid desert environment (150 mm us of rainfall per year) that may preclude I nd freshwater aquaculture Arabian Sea Indus delta: Comprises around 60 000 ha of arid land (200 IBRD 43594 | mm of rainfall per year). Fluvial changes due to upstream MARCH 2019 impoundments have caused sea water encroachment. Sindh coast: Around 350 km in length, the coastal region is This map was produced by the Cartography Recent water quality studies show high bacterial loading relatively at and arid (200 mm of rainfall per year.) Around one Unit of the World Bank Group. The boundaries, colors, denominations and any other from domestic waste water, low dissolved oxygen, and high quarter of this area comprises wetlands and water courses. Many information shown on this map do not imply, heavy metal loads. Half of Pakistan’s industrial units are in are calm, protectd, and ushed daily by tidal ows. Experimental on the part of the World Bank Group, any Karachi, which along with rapid urbanisation, have shrimp culture has begun in Thatta district. judgment on the legal status of any territory, or any endorsement or acceptance of such contributed to pollution in the delta area. boundaries. 60° 65° 70° Source: Compiled by authors. half the size of Pakistan’s. Yields in Pakistan are typically for more intensive production, and insufficient quality 2,400 to 3,000 kg per hectare per year (Khan and Chat- of broodstock (breeding fish) and fish seed (young fish ta 2015), while yields in Bangladesh averaged 4,600 used to populate fish farms). kg across all pond-based systems in 2015-16 (Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock 2017) and were substantial- Despite these lower yields, aquaculture in Pakistan ly higher in intensive-input systems. Factors lowering has enjoyed some growth in the past decade and productivity in Pakistan include limited inputs required now accounts for about 23 percent of total fish Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 2. The status of the fisheries sector 28 Box 1: Potential of Soybean Meal as a Protein Replacement in Fish Feeds A significant barrier to the future growth of the global aquaculture sector remains the limited supply of fishmeal and fish oil as feedstock for aquaculture. New nutrient sources from non-fish sources are being explored, and breeding programs aiming to improve fish tolerance to new ingredients are underway. There is significant interest in soybean meal as an alternative source of protein for aquaculture feeds. The American Soybean Association recently supported a project that would increase demand for U.S. soy by speeding development of aquaculture and soy-based feed industries in Pakistan. While it is widely accepted that soybean meal is a valuable protein source, it has limitations. It is deficient in some amino and fatty acids. While it is a good source of the Omega-3 precursor alpha-linolenic acid, it is poor in some Omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are essential dietary nutrients for both fish and human health. A diet based predomi- nantly on soybean meal in fish feed may also cause susceptibility to pathogens. Despite these disadvantages, the global aquaculture and animal feed industries already utilize vast amounts of SBM suc- cessfully. The proportion of fishmeal in aquaculture feed is falling (Waite et al. 2014). In the short term, Pakistan may need to import soybean meal if it is to develop its fish feed sector without placing unacceptable pressure on fishmeal stocks that are already depleted. production. Profitability of these systems is quite good, duced or, more recently, sourced from Punjab feed sup- mainly because of low expenditure on inputs. Recent pliers. Indian major carps, which still dominate Pakistani studies have examined private returns to fish farming aquaculture, have traditionally been reared semi-inten- in Pakistan, focusing on semi-intensive freshwater carp sively in fertilized ponds with only supplementary feeds. and tilapia operations in Punjab and brackish water With fish stocks declining, and fishmeal an expensive carp culture in Sindh. They report cost benefit ratios at ingredient, interest is high in fishmeal alternatives for 1.17, 2.0, and 1.37-1.51 respectively (Fitzsimmons et al. aquaculture feeds. One that has been tried in Pakistan is 2015 and Chughtai and Mahmood 2012). In the 1990s, soybean meal (Box 1). ADB financed a US$15 million project that constructed demonstration fish farms and hatcheries, and improved A Fisheries Development Board (FDB) was recently extension, training, and data collection systems in three established to trial new aquaculture approaches in provinces. Upon completion of the project, the estimat- Pakistan. The board works in partnership with the pri- ed value of fish production was US$13 million annually, vate sector to support the development and expansion through more than 1,700 new small enterprises. of aquaculture by determining locally-appropriate and cost-effective production methods. The current priorities Quality fish seed is a necessary input for an aquacul- are tilapia, shrimp, and sea bass farming. A shrimp demon- ture industry. As in other South Asian countries, feed is stration farm was recently established as a FDB joint ven- supplied by a mix of private and government hatcheries. ture with the private sector, with experimental output of In Punjab, the private sector operates 74 hatcheries while 50-70 tons per year. The board is also working to increase the public sector runs 14 hatcheries and nurseries. The domestic private-sector production of fish seed (tilapia) Sindh Fisheries Centre has a hatchery complex for carp and fish feeds (tilapia, carp, and trout). Box 2 provides more species, producing 10-20 million seed annually. Some information on aquaculture development activities. government hatcheries supply seed both to stock in res- ervoirs and use in fish farms. Seed of carps is not currently a constraint on the sector’s development. 2.5. Status of Post-Harvest Complete feeds are one of the largest recurring Processing costs to fish farmers in those systems that use While much of the inland capture fisheries’ pro- them.6 Complete feeds (those that provide for fishes’ duction is consumed locally at source, marine full dietary needs) are used in the upland, cool-water landings and most aquaculture production are trout industry in Pakistan, and are either locally pro- sold via market channels. In general, post-harvest 6 Cultured fish require protein, lipids, energy, vitamins and minerals for growth. Nutrients for cultured fish may come from plankton, bacteria, insects and other fish from within the aquaculture ecosystem and/or from organic matter and processed feeds added to the ecosystem. For some species raised in semi-intensive pond systems, grains and food industry by-products serve as supplemental feeds (feeds that are rich in protein but nutritionally incomplete). Nutritionally complete feeds are required where natural foods sources are absent or only a minor source of nutrition, such as in intensive cages or tank systems. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 2. The status of the fisheries sector 29 Box 2: Aquaculture Development Activities In 2007, the Federal Government issued the National Policy and Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development. The document proposed Federal, and Provincial and Territorial roles in the development and implementation of aquaculture policy. Some of these have already begun. For example, a Fisheries Development Commissioner (FDC) position has been established, along with a Fisheries Development Board (FDB). Other actions taken to date include: The introduction and development of tilapia farming using local hatcheries • Research into farming of giant tiger prawns and white leg shrimp • Research into Asian sea bass farming using trash fish in pens and cages • At the Provincial level, the following actions have occurred: • Sindh Province developed a Fisheries and Aquaculture Strategy for 2010-13. • Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province is working to establish a carp hatchery in Swabi district to stock the reservoirs of the Tarbela and Khanpur Dams. • Balochistan Province developed a strategy to promote shrimp farming in 2006, and has since focused on promoting carp farming in four of its most-irrigated districts. • Punjab Province created a five-year development framework for fisheries, which included research, training, and estab- lishment of an aquaculture export processing zone and hatcheries for tilapia and shrimp. processing in Pakistan is outdated and under-capital- Table 5: Fishery Export Product Categories ized, which contributes to the relatively low value ad- Scaled According to Their Value Addition Potentials dition of the sector. As a highly perishable commodity, fish often needs rapid processing. The most valuable Product category Relative value addition products are fresh, destined for direct human con- sumption (a share of 53 percent of global production), Live/assorted ready to eat 10 followed by frozen fish (26 percent), canned fish (11 Fresh 8 percent), and cured fish (10 percent). Different levels of Processed (simple ready to eat) 8 processing create different value multipliers (Table 5), Processed (ready to cook) 7 with significant implications for the potential growth in fishery exports. Frozen (IQF) 5 Frozen (blast) 4 The current underdeveloped state of processing helps bar the Pakistan fishery sector from many Dried/salted 3 lucrative export markets. At present, just two pro- Fishmeal 1 cessing establishments have been approved for export Source: SMEDA 2008. to the EU. The Marine Fisheries Department has pro- posed five additional plants for listing, but the EU has declined to add them pending an inspection mission. porters and importers, 175 are registered in Karachi. Overall, lack of access to foreign markets is causing a About 104 are traders only, two are fishmeal operators, significant loss of value for Pakistan (discussed further and 77 have a processing or packing facility (Sea-Ex in section 4.5). 2017). Outside of Karachi, a number of processors have invested in establishments in Korangi, in anticipation of The coast of Pakistan has four main harbors and an increase in supplies of raw material landed at this lo- nine primary landing sites. The largest is Karachi fish cation. Along the Balochistan coastal zone there are 29 harbor, which is severely overcrowded. By contrast, the establishments with freezing and cold storage, most of other main harbors are underutilized due to a shortage them aimed at small pelagic fish such as Indian mack- of improved facilities and supporting infrastructure (Box erel for export. This coastal zone also has 30 ice plants. 3). Infrastructure inadequacies at landing points further undermine product quality. A major constraint in processing and marketing, including for export, is a shortage of landed catch. The fish-processing sector of Pakistan is highly Operators report a capacity utilization of only 30-35 concentrated in Karachi. Out of 183 registered ex- percent. Freezing plants in Balochistan are reported to Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 2. The status of the fisheries sector 30 Box 3: Fishing Harbor Infrastructure in Pakistan There are two major harbors in Sindh Province—Karachi and Korangi—and two in Balochistan--Gwadar and Pasni. The country’s largest port, Karachi is used by 80-90 percent of the industrial fishing fleet, mostly shrimp trawlers and larger gillnetters. Overcrowding is a problem: the number of fishing boats operating here has increased from only 400 in 1966 to more than 13,000 in 2010. Facilities at the harbor include: • 10 floating piers • A slipway for maintenance and repair of large vessels • Three 6,000-square meter fish auction halls with cold stores • 25 processing factories of approximately 50,000 square meters • A flake ice plant with capacity of 40 tons per day • Crate-washing facilities These facilities fall short of demand, and some are in poor condition. The resulting overcrowding increases unloading times. Overall, the loss of fish due to bad handling is estimated at 18 percent by weight. Korangi fishing harbor was commissioned in 1996 and financed by the Asia Development Bank. It is now operated by the Korangi Fishing Harbor Authority. Designed for medium-sized vessels, the harbor is meant to lessen congestion at Karachi by taking on boats that are beyond that harbor’s capacity. Due to weak supporting infrastructure, the Korangi harbor re- mains under-utilized and has not fulfilled its potential. However, since 2009, the harbor’s operating income has increased and the authority is now reporting profits. Facilities include: • Seven fish processing factories • Two ice factories • Four yards building fiberglass-reinforced plastic boats • Mechanical workshops • Two separate electric power supplies free from load-shedding • Adequate water supply Gwadar and Pasni fishing harbors, which were established by the Balochistan Coastal Development Authority, suffer from silting and require investment. The Pasni harbor is leased to private-sector operators who reportedly lack the resources to develop it further. Gwadar harbor is scheduled for redevelopment as a large commercial shipping port, with fishing vessels to move to new ports to be located at either Pishukan or Surbandar, some 46 and 30 km respectively from Gwadar. have ceased operation due to the collapse of the Indian could be better. Ice for preserving fish is commonly mackerel catch. This results in higher costs and under- available and affordable, but, there are reportedly poor mines marketing due to low continuity of supply. Oper- sanitary conditions on board some vessels, as well as at ators report no problems finding markets, even though landing sites. This could be corrected by improving fa- entry to higher-value markets such as the EU and Unit- cilities and skills training. For example, the Government ed States are constrained by Sanitary and Phytosanitary of Balochistan through the UNIDO Trade Related Techni- (SPS) measures7 (discussed further in Section 0). Mar- cal Assistance Program (TRTA II), successfully upgraded kets in the Persian Gulf countries and China continue food safety conditions and quality of fish in participat- to show high demand. Given the right conditions, and ing fishing communities (Box 4). selection of the right species for culture, there is signif- icant potential for the emerging aquaculture sector to A large proportion of Pakistan’s fish goes to rela- provide a sustainable source of fish to the processing tively low-value fishmeal production (Box 5). Al- sector. most 60 percent of Pakistan’s marine capture produc- tion is considered “trash fish” and is used for fishmeal Cold chain infrastructure is not a major constraint (Fanning et al. 2016), which has the lowest value of any in the coastal regions—but sanitation conditions processed fish product (Box 5). A number of companies 7 SPS measures include tolerance limits for harmful residues, labelling requirements for food safety, and hygiene and quarantine requirements. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 2. The status of the fisheries sector 31 Box 4: Improving Food 2.6. Status of Markets and Trade Safety Conditions Given low per capita consumption of fish at In 2014 and 2015, the Government of Balochistan, home, exports are an important component of with the support of the EU and the UNIDO Trade Re- Pakistan’s fisheries sector. During the fiscal year lated Technical Assistance (TRTA II) Program, trained 2015-16, Pakistan exported approximately 140,000 26 fisheries officers to be master trainers in fish qual- tons of fish products, worth more than US$350 million. ity control. The Government supplied 54,000 plastic crates, 12,000 ice boxes, 36,000 baskets, and other Export value has trended up over the past decade, in equipment to the fishery sector. It trained 2,000 fish- line with rising global fish prices, although earnings ers at the community level on good fish handling have plateaued in recent years (Figure 4). The most principals, food safety, post-harvest loss, and quality important export product categories are frozen fish control (TRTA II 2016). (excluding fish fillets), which account for 58 percent The project achieved an increase in the ex-vessel price of export value. Shrimp make up a further 23 percent. from US$0.25 to US$2.0 per kg for some of the higher Fresh fish, fish fillets, salted fish, and fishmeal account value species such as cuttlefish, because the product for most of the balance, each within the range of 3-5 could now reach foreign markets via exporters in Kara- chi. This provided additional revenues for investment in percent. Exports may increase in the next few years the sector. due to the establishment of a new land trading route from Gwadar to Guangdong, China. Imports are a rel- atively small but growing component of the Pakistan export fishmeal to China (Akhtar and Scheik 2014). Do- fisheries sector. mestically, fishmeal is consumed by the poultry indus- try. However, development of the aquaculture industry SPS conditions and technical barriers to trade and the introduction of fish feed into its production (TBT) have hurt Pakistan’s export opportunities in system will further expand the domestic market, po- the past. In 2007, the EU banned import of various Pa- tentially increasing pressure on the resource further (see kistani fisheries products for failure to meet the EU’s SPS Section 4.7). conditions for trade. This led Pakistan to develop new markets, particularly in East Asia and Africa. Globally, In line with the depleted resource base, production the European Union, the United States, and Japan are of fishmeal appears to be in decline, falling from the largest import markets for fish but also some of the 100,000 tons in fiscal year 2013-14 (60 percent stricter markets in terms of SPS controls. Their depen- from the industrial fishmeal subsector) to 40,000 dence on developing country imports is projected to tons in fiscal year 2015-16 (85 percent from the increase in the future. industrial subsector). This is due to declining “trash fish” catches. The smaller-scale sun-dried producers in Pakistan’s domestic market for fish and fishery particular are finding it increasingly difficult to obtain products is small, relative to the size of the popula- consistent supplies of raw material. tion. Average per capita fish consumption is about 2 kg Box 5: Fishmeal Production and Impact on Fishing Sector Value Addition In recent years, the catching of “trash fish” for fishmeal production in Pakistan has become a targeted fishery in and of itself. The fishmeal industry has three sources of fish (Van der Pijl et al. 2012): 1. Species of low value and small size for which fishmeal reduction is a reasonable use (for example, catches of some small pelagic species) 2. Spoilage of otherwise marketable catches due to factors such as poor handling and excessive trip length 3. Undersized and immature individuals of potentially valuable species caught in demersal and shrimp trawls While some of the species within the trash catch have little alternative economic value (categories 1 and 2 above), a large fraction (category 3) is made up of juveniles of high-valued species. Some of these species are severely depleted. Even without directed fishing on these species groups, the trash fishery continues to deplete stocks and prevent rebuilding of the higher-value adult stocks. On this basis, a key conclusion of the FRAPP is that “alternative sources for fishmeal stock in mesopelagics, responsible harvest of small pelagics, and the unavoidable minimum of by-catch from other fisheries should be used” (Fanning et al. 2016). Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 2. The status of the fisheries sector 32 Figure 4: Fish Exports by Value from Pakistan 450,000 400,000 350,000 300,000 Export Value (US$, ‘000) 250,000 200,000 150,000 100,000 50,000 0 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Fishmeal Crustaceans and molluscs, prepared or preserved Fish, prepared or preserved Crustaceans and molluscs, live, fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted or smoked Fish, dried, salted, or smoked Fish, fresh, chilled or frozen Source: FAO 2016b. per year (Table 6), only a tenth of the global average of Table 6: Supply Balance and Estimated Per 20 kg per capita in 2014 (FAO 2016a) and the lowest of Capita Fish Consumption any ocean-facing nation. Category Volume (tons) Units Most domestic fish consumption takes place in the Production (marine) 359,534 tons coastal zones, and it is probable that a significant Production (freshwater) 132,456 proportion of the population never eats fish at Imports 7,089 all. The highest fish consumption is in the two coastal Exports 140,474 provinces of Balochistan (2.4 kg per capita per year) and Exports of fishmeal1 148,148 Sindh (1.6 kg), but levels drop to 0.2 kg in Punjab and Apparent consumption 352,331 just 0.05 kg in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. There is no clear Pakistan population (2016) 193,200,000 Persons divide between rural and urban areas. The low rate of Per capita consumption 1.9 Kilograms per domestic fish consumption contributes to the poor capita nutritional status of a large segment of the population, 1 Estimate based on 40,000 tons of exports and a yield of 22 percent meal and 5 percent oil. which could potentially be improved if fish consump- Source: pers. comm. MFD 2017 and ITC Trade Map 2017. tion increased. However, addressing this issue by ex- tending fish consumption to people who never eat fish presents a different marketing challenge than increas- out the specific requirements for complying with ing the frequency of consumption of those who do. In onerous SPS measures. The Southeast Asian market both groups, cultural barriers may exist. prefers whole fish, which requires less processing and allows for larger volumes. This product may also un- By contrast, the international market has provided dergo secondary processing in the importing country. Pakistan with export opportunities over the past These markets represent attractive alternatives to the two decades. Pakistani fish products are exported to EU, although the price obtained may not be as high. over 50 countries, including Vietnam, UAE, Thailand, Sri Pakistan recently entered negotiations with Hong Kong Lanka, Japan, China, Malaysia, South Korea, Egypt, and to export tuna. Saudi Arabia (Table 7). However, these opportunities have been limited by SPS and Technical Barriers to Trade. Pakistan’s imports of fish have risen by a factor of three since 2012, from US$5.4 million to US$17.7 High demand for Pakistani exports in Southeast million, which is quite low relative to exports. The Asian markets ensures a reasonable price with- current volume is about 7,000 tons, and almost all (92 Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 2. The status of the fisheries sector 33 Table 7: Top 20 Export Markets for Pakistan Fishery Products Exported value (US$ thousands) 2011/2012 2012/2013 2013/2014 2014/2015 2015/2016 Vietnam 76,196 86,517 87,841 82,411 92,520 Thailand 30,456 40,559 53,083 56,280 53,698 China 41,637 35,778 55,210 46,168 47,993 United Arab Emirates 28,745 50,805 46,614 35,756 41,475 South Korea 17,420 16,844 18,784 21,197 19,558 Kuwait 8,762 13,078 10,027 11,675 12,915 Malaysia 18,253 15,986 16,754 12,164 12,102 Saudi Arabia 22,704 18,924 9,267 8,387 10,814 Egypt 13,240 13,705 15,398 9,883 7,627 Indonesia 6,457 6,509 7,105 6,174 5,322 Sri Lanka 3,882 4,742 3,784 5,064 4,433 Qatar 1,654 2,584 2,083 2,705 3,408 Japan 2,414 5,594 5,073 8,154 2,871 Taiwan 1,635 3,829 3,571 2,605 2,713 Hong Kong, China 8,167 5,509 3,731 3,603 2,501 United Kingdom 3 277 2,331 2,600 2,472 Bahrain 2,515 1,058 2,712 2,656 2,293 United States 1,374 1,227 916 1,128 1,562 Singapore 665 1,180 1,105 927 1,160 Bangladesh 1,266 2,155 1,046 1,977 1,079 World 292,205 333,130 355,625 328,733 336,380 Source: ITC Trade Map 2017. percent by value) is frozen farmed Pangasius fillets from with authority granted by the Pakistan Fish Inspection Vietnam. This is used extensively in catering markets and Quality Control Act 1997. The safety of imported, and is also sold in urban supermarkets. While the trade unprocessed fishery products is controlled by certifica- balance in fishery products is strongly positive (by a fac- tion at the point of import by the Animal Quarantine tor of about 20), imports have a higher unit value than Department (AQD) of the Ministry of National Food exports: imports have an average price of US$3.20 per Security and Research. Imports of processed fishery kg compared to US$2.62 for exports. The rapid growth products, such as canned goods, are controlled by the in imports illustrates that there is an unfulfilled demand Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority. for low-cost fish fillets in Pakistan. Provincial and Territorial governments are respon- The Federal Government is responsible for food sible for intra-provincial trade, and are at different safety where international trade and inter-pro- stages of establishing food safety authorities. The vincial trade are involved. Three separate federal Punjab Food Authority has been operating since 2013 authorities oversee safety of imported and exported (under the Punjab Food Authority Act 2011 and the Pure fishery products. Safety of exported fishery products is Food Rules 2011. There is some overlap in functions with controlled by certification at the point of export by MFD, the Provincial Fisheries Department, which also have Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 2. The status of the fisheries sector 34 control systems and the power to take samples, register, 2. Fishing Harbor Authorities operate the major and certify fishery products. A new laboratory has been fishing harbors of Karachi (Sindh) and Pasni (Baloch- established at the Manawan Fisheries Research and istan) under the DoFs, while Korangi Harbor in Sindh Training Centre with the capacity for microbiological is part of the Federal Ministry of Ports and Shipping. and chemical analysis. All of these ports are run on a corporate basis, with a board of directors and a managing director. 2.7. Status of the Fisheries 3. Coastal Development Authorities coordinate de- Governance Framework velopment in the coastal zone (from the coast to 30 km inland) in Sindh and Balochistan, including proj- Pakistan’s fisheries governance structure has ects related to fisheries and aquaculture. changed substantially over the last decade. For many years it was led by a Federal Ministry of Food, Ag- 4. Irrigation Departments are responsible for sup- riculture and Livestock (MINFAL). In 2008, fisheries were plying water to irrigation areas, and thus have an transferred to the newly established Ministry of Live- influence on inland aquaculture and fisheries devel- stock and Dairy Development. Following amendment opment in Punjab and Sindh. to Pakistan’s Constitution in 2010,8 the development and management of food, agriculture, livestock, and 5. Departments of Planning and Investment scruti- fisheries were largely shifted to Provincial governments, nize the development plans of sectoral departments, although Federal bodies retained some responsibilities. such as fisheries, at the provincial level. They have strong links with provincial boards of investment. Pakistan currently has no specific strategy or policy for capture fisheries or aquaculture. In 2007, a Na- Core functions are distributed throughout these tional Policy and Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture institutions and their Federal counterparts. These Development in Pakistan was developed for the then include: MINFAL with the support of FAO. This comprehensive document underwent considerable stakeholder review, 6. Fisheries Control—This includes monitoring and, and, while MINFAL signed off on it, it was never formal- where deemed necessary, limiting fishing capacity, ly adopted due to a Federal political transition. At the imposing technical standards on fishing techniques Provincial level, Sindh developed its own fisheries plan, and gear, and controlling operations at sea, such as the Sindh Fisheries and Aquaculture Strategy 2010-2013 movements in and out of harbors. In Sindh, vessel (Ministry of Finance 2009). registration is a Provincial matter for vessels under 30 tons and a Federal matter for larger vessels. In Baloch- The provinces have roughly similar distributions of istan, this is a Federal matter, but a lack of monitoring responsibilities among their departments and oth- capacity on the ground means that it is undertaken er institutions (Figure 5), including: by the Balochistan DoF. Fishing licenses in the EEZ beyond 20 nautical miles (Zone III) are issued by the 1. Departments of Fisheries (DoF) are responsible Federal Government, and by the Provincial Govern- for licensing coastal fishing vessels and regulating ments in coastal waters (Zone I) and the buffer zone fisheries under their jurisdiction (less than 12 nauti- (Zone II) (Figure 6). cal miles from the coast). They are also the permit- ting authority for aquaculture development and 7. Fisheries Research—MFD has the recognized for leasing out government land or water bodies mandate for fisheries research, with the Kara- to private investors or communities. They own and chi-based National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) operate fisheries training facilities. The Balochistan working on wider marine biology, oceanography, DoF also has the remit for monitoring, control, and and geology issues. A lack of national level marine surveillance (MCS) in the Province’s marine waters, research planning results in potential overlaps be- unlike Sindh where this function is mandated to the tween the two organizations, and thus competition Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA). for funding. However, the two institutions work 8 The Eighteenth Amendment introduced changes to about 36 percent of the 1973 Constitution of Pakistan. The structure of the state shifted from heavily centralized to a more decentralized federation. The legislative and executive authorities of the governments were delimited by assigning the exclusivity of 53 subjects to the Federal government, 18 subjects to the Council of Common Interests (CCI), and all residual subjects to the Provincial Governments. The CCI is a permanent body to address inter-governmental disputes on issues of recurring contest between Provinces and the Federal Government. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 2. The status of the fisheries sector Figure 5: Institutional Map of Fisheries-Related Governance in Pakistan FEDERAL CABINET MINISTRIES WITH DIRECT FISHERES RESPONSIBILITIES Ministry of Ports & Ministry of National Ministry of Ministry of Ministry of Ministry of Ministry of Shipping Food Security & Planning, Science & Defence Commerce Climate Change Research Development & Technology Fisheries Development Pakistan Reform Pakistarn Maritime Environmental Commissioner Agriculture Export Protection Research Council Planning Security Development Authority Agency Marine Fisheries Commission Fund National EIA / IEE / SEA Department Fisheries Institute of Directorate Pakistan Navy FEDERAL LEVEL Development Oceanography National Board Pakistan Joint Maritime National Tari Korangi Planning & Biosafety Fisheries Information Commission Centre Management Coordination Harbour Animal Institute Directorate Authority Quarantine Dept Centre Inter-Provincial Coordination Ministry (inc. the Council of Common Interests) SINDH PROVINCE BALOCHISTAN PROVINCE PUNJAB PROVINCE KHYBER PUKHTONKHWA (KP) PROVINCE Provincial Cabinet Provincial Cabinet Provincial Cabinet Provincial Cabinet Planning & Development Dept. Planning & Development Industries, Commerce & Planning & Development Chapter 2. The status of the fisheries sector Sindh Coastal Development Department Development Department Department Authority Punjab Board of Investment Sindh Board of Investment Coastal Development and Agriculture Department Fisheries Department Forestry, Fisheries, Wildlife & Livestock & Fisheries Secretary Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Livestock & Fisheries Dept Technical Wing (MCS) Tourism Department Karachi Fisheries Harbour Pasni Fish Harbour Authority Dept. of Fisheries Punjab Irrigation Department Authority Livestock & Fisheries Secretary PROVINCIAL LEVEL Balochistan Coastal Irrigation Department Irrigation & Power Department Development Authority Cooperative Department Fishermen's Co-operative Society Ltd Source: Compiled by authors. 35 36 Figure 6: The Three Marine Fisheries Zones of Pakistan 60°E 64°E 66°E 68°E 70°E BALOCHISTAN ISLAMIC REP. Nawabshah 26°N OF IRAN Turbat ZONE II ZONE I Straight baselines 26°N 12–20nm 0–12nm Mirput Khas Chabahar Hyderabad Gwadar Karachi SINDH 2000 m 3000 m 24°N 24°N EEZ (240,000 km2) 10 INDIA 20 00 0m m ZONE III Bhuj 20–200 nm 20 00 m OMAN 22°N 22°N 200nm Porbandar Extended Continental Shelf 0 25 50 Nautical Miles (50,000 km2) 3000 m 0 50 100 Kilometers 20°N STATE BOUNDARIES (PAKISTAN) IBRD 43593 | AUGUST 2018 This map was produced by the Cartography Unit of the World Bank INTERNATIONAL BOUNDARIES Outer Limits of the Group. The boundaries, colors, denominations and any other information shown on this map do not imply, on the part of the World Bank Group, any judgment on the legal status of any territory, or any endorsement or acceptance of such boundaries. Continental Shelf 64°E 66°E 68°E 70°E Source: Compiled by authors. together on some fisheries research. Pakistan does 9. Maritime Surveillance—The limit of territorial wa- not own any fisheries research vessels, and therefore ters is twelve nautical miles beyond land. The internal must depend upon foreign vessels, which are not waters of Pakistan are measured from the baseline.10 always available. Fisheries outside of territorial waters are managed by the MFD, although responsibility for MCS is provided 8. Statistics and Data Collection—At the Federal lev- by the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA). el, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), under the MCS functions within the territorial waters are more Ministry of Economic Affairs and Statistics, is respon- variable, with Sindh Province mandating the PMSA sible for setting a national framework for statistics, in- to undertake this function in coastal waters, while cluding for the fisheries sector. At the Provincial level, Balochistan—which does not allow trawling—has a each government has its own Bureau of Statistics. Technical Wing in its Coastal Development and Fish- The responsibility for collecting fisheries statistics eries Department (CDFD) that is responsible for MCS (for example, landings by location and species) lies activities in territorial waters. Of the two provinces, with the fisheries department, which provides Pro- Sindh faces the most challenges, with a convolut- vincial authorities with data, while MFD works with ed coastline (especially the Indus Delta area to the PBS to provide marine capture fisheries landings and southeast of Karachi) and a large, motorized bottom exports. The Provinces also supply MFD with fisher- trawl fleet that operates throughout Pakistan’s ma- ies-related data (catches, employment, processing, rine and coastal waters. The PMSA is better suited for commodities, exports, and prices).9 monitoring and control in open waters. 9 This is compiled into the ‘Handbook of Fisheries Statistics of Pakistan’ (MFD, 2012), however, the last year this document was produced was in 2012, with data up to 2009. 10 Territorial Waters and Maritime Zones Act (see United Nations, 1976). Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 2. The status of the fisheries sector 37 Wooden fishing boats under construction near Karachi (Naim Beg, Shutterstock) At present, there is no formal Fisheries Monitoring private sector, and entrepreneurship-led growth and Centre at either the Federal or Provincial levels, value addition. An important part of Pakistan Vision nor are vessels fitted with satellite-based Vessel 2025 is a structural transformation towards production Monitoring Systems (VMS).11 That said, the Baloch- of high value-added products. The Ministry of National istan government recently directed that vessels greater Food Security and Research, under which the Fisheries than 15 meters in length must carry and operate VMS Development Board (FDB) operates, recently released equipment, with data provided every four hours to the a draft National Food Security Policy (MNFSR 2017) in CDFD (Government of Balochistan 2016). It is likely the which fisheries and aquaculture are considered “high Sindh Government will follow suit, and it appears that value activities.” the private sector is also encouraging the uptake of VMS monitoring. The Deep-Sea Fishing Policy, which guides access to the 20-200 nautical mile zone (Zone III) of the While there is no officially adopted national fish- EEZ, was first developed in 1995, last updated in eries policy or strategy, other policies partially 2009, and is currently under revision (Ministry of define the Federal Government’s vision for the Ports and Shipping 2016). The policy intends to ban sector. The current supreme policy document in Paki- all bottom trawling and purse seining13 in this zone, stan is Pakistan 2025: One Nation, One Vision12 (Plan- limiting the number of other gear-equipped vessels, ning Commission 2014). This affirms the Sustainable and requiring use of VMS and Pakistani-only crews. A Development Goals (SDGs) and has pillars covering limited number of foreign joint ventures will be per- elements such as institutional reform, food security, the mitted for tuna, squid, and mesopelagic fishing, but 11 VMS is a general term describing satellite-based monitoring systems used in commercial fishing to allow regulatory organizations to keep track of vessel activities. VMS can monitor a vessel’s position, time at a position, course, and speed of commercial fishing, regularly transmitting data to fisheries authorities. VMS is a key part of MCS programs at national and international levels and helps improve maritime safety. 12 This document lays out a plan to build a connected society, with entrepreneurship-led growth, a modern public sector, and a knowledge economy, achieved by devel- oping social and human capital and by empowering women. It sets out a path for Pakistan to be an energy-, water-, and food-secure nation that is taking steps towards meeting the SDGs. All policies, including aquaculture, must dovetail with this national strategic vision. 13 A purse seine is a large net that two boats set around a school of fish. After the ends have come together, the bottom is closed, capturing the school. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 2. The status of the fisheries sector 38 Box 6: Multilateral Environmental Agreements Relating to the Marine Environment to Which Pakistan Is a Party • Convention on the International Maritime Organization, 1948 • Agreement for the Establishment of the Indo-Pacific Fisheries Commission, 1948 • International Convention on Civil Liability for Oil Pollution Damage, 1969 • International Convention relating to Intervention on the High Seas in Cases of Oil Pollution Casualties, 1969; (INTERVEN- TION Convention 69) • The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, especially as Waterfowl Habitat, 1971 • Convention on The Prevention of Marine Pollution By Dumping Of Wastes And Other Matter, 1972 • Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, 1972 • Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species, 1972 • Protocol to the International Convention relating to Intervention on the High Seas in Cases of Oil Pollution Casualties, 1973 (INTERVENTION Protocol 73) • International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, as Modified by the Protocol of 1978 (MARPOL 73/78) including Annexes I-V • Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals, 1979 • Articles of Association of the South Asia Cooperative Environment Program, 1981 • United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, 1982 • Protocol to Amend the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance Especially as Waterfowl Habitat, 1982 • Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal, 1989 • Convention on Biological Diversity, 1992 • United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, 1992 • Protocol of 1992 to the International Convention for the Establishment of an International Fund for the Compensation of Oil Pollution, 1971 • Protocol of 1992 to Amend the International Convention on Civil Liability for Oil Pollution Damage, 1969 (CLC ‘92) • Agreement for the Establishment of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission, 1993 • Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utiliza- tion to the Convention on Biological Diversity, 2010 their vessels must have a minimum of 25 percent Pa- Pakistan is not a signatory of the 1993 FAO Agreement kistani crew. to Promote Compliance with International Conservation and Management Measures by Fishing Vessels on the Pakistan is a signatory to international conven- High Seas, and has not yet signed the Agreement on tions covering basic UN agreements, regional fish- Port State Measures to Prevent, Deter, and Eliminate IUU eries management agreements, and several of the Fishing (FAO 2001). In addition, it has yet to prepare and International Maritime Organization’s conventions formalize National Plans of Action for subjects such as on marine pollution, safety at sea, and worker con- capacity limitation, illegal, unreported and unregulated ditions (Box 6). However, there are noticeable gaps. (IUU) fishing, and conservation. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 2. The status of the fisheries sector Chapter 3 Opportunities for the fisheries sector (piola666, iStockphoto) 41 Fisheries could generate greater net benefits—this is 3.1. Overview widely accepted.14 The Economic Survey of Pakistan 2015-16 provides a national vision for fisheries development: to “pro- Pakistan would do well to make fisheries more sus- mote fisheries to ensure food security through tainable and more attractive to investors, and to availability of quality products at competitive pric- add value in both commercial and social terms. The es” (Ministry of Finance 2016). The sector has much priority areas, explored throughout this section, are (1) to offer in terms of boosting export revenues, creating ensuring sustainable conservation of marine resources, decent jobs, supporting livelihoods in coastal communi- (2) further developing aquaculture, (3) enhancing fish ties, improving domestic nutrition and food security, and processing and exports, and (4) improving food security closing Pakistan’s significant economic gender inequality. and nutrition. Governments of Pakistan recognizes these opportunities, and have signaled their desire to increase the contribu- tion of the fishery sector towards these goals. 3.2. Opportunities from Sustainable Conservation of The sector has potential to be a much stronger en- Marine Resources gine of economic growth and social development. The marine capture fishery has suffered a decrease in Improved management of marine resources could production and per-unit value due to overfishing over help prevent large declines in production. If current the past two decades (Fanning et al. 2016). A program levels of fishing effort continue, all major commercial to reduce the current levels of overfishing could help species groups15 are likely to decline substantially in to- reverse these trends, maintain current production quan- tal stock size (biomass) due to overfishing. Under status tities, and increase the value of that production. The quo conditions, total marine fisheries biomass would aquaculture industry is for now growing only slowly. stabilize at a long-term 40 percent of 2015 biomass lev- Improvements to biosecurity and food safety systems els. Within each species group, the remaining biomass could help Pakistan gain access to international mar- would be concentrated in smaller, less valuable individ- kets, and reduce risks that hold back private investment. uals, a trend evident already. A detailed description of Figure 7: Projected Biomass for Commercial Species Groups Relative to Current Size Under Status Quo (Constant 2014) Effort Levels, Using Median Stock Parameter Estimates 1.40 Groupers Snappers 1.20 Croakers Sea Breams 1.00 Threadfin Breams 0.80 Pomfret Ribbonfish 0.60 Grunters Catfish 0.40 Kiddi Shrimp Large Shrimp 0.20 Small Pelagics 0.00 Demersal Elasmobranchs 2016 2021 2026 2031 2036 2041 2046 Source: Authors’ analysis (see Annex 1 for modelling approach). 14 See for example: “Fisheries get attention; seafood exports rebound,” Dawn, February 2017, available online at https://www.dawn.com/news/1317239 15 Analysis is based on a bioeconomic model (Schaefer-Gordon surplus production model) using parameters estimated by the FRAPP (Fanning et al. 2016), which assessed 13 of the most important commercial species groups, representing approximately 70 percent of total reported landings by volume. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 3. Opportunities for the fisheries sector 42 Figure 8: Fishing Yields, Concordant with Stable Stock Levels under Different Levels of Long- Term Effort 35,000 2014 Effort Levels 30,000 25,000 Equilib. Yield (tons) 20,000 15,000 10,000 5,000 0 0.00 0.20 0.40 0.60 0.80 1.00 1.20 1.40 1.60 1.80 Effort (relative to 2014) Groupers Snappers Croakers Sea Breams Threadfin Breams Pomfret Ribbonfish Grunters Catfish Demersal Elasmobranchs Kiddi Shrimp Large Shrimp Note: Effort is standardized relative to 2014 for each species group to allow for comparison between groups, which receive different levels of fishing effort due to gear choices and targeting. Source: Authors’ analysis (see Annex 1 for modelling approach). the modelling approach used for these projections and Although each species group is slightly different, others in this chapter is provided in Annex 1. maximum sustainable yields (MSY) are achieved at approximately 40-60 percent of current effort. Improved management can take many forms, but Figure 8 shows long-term sustainable yields that are a reduction in fishing overcapacity—the preven- projected under differing effort relative to 2014 effort. tion of further overfishing—is key. Capacity can be Very low effort naturally leads to low harvests, yet very expressed as the effort16 expended by all participants in high effort also leads to low harvest, by reducing the a fishery, and is a function of the number of vessels, the stock below its most productive size. The intermedi- type of gear used, the permitted fishing season length, ate, optimum point varies by species. Ribbonfish and and other factors. Effort can be controlled in various ways, groupers show relatively flat responses with a maxi- including vessel licensing and buyback, season restric- mum yield of about 70 percent of current fishing effort, tions, and gear restrictions. The analysis presented here while the more heavily depleted groups such as snap- does not make recommendations concerning types of per, sea breams, and demersal elasmobranchs show effort management—fishing managers can choose the much sharper responses but at significantly lower rates means that are most locally appropriate. While there is of fishing effort. Any species with a maximum that is some variation in projections, estimated annual harvests lower than the current effort point can be expected to are found to be much higher under reduced effort levels, produce greater yields, in the long-term, from reduced relative to status quo effort levels. fishing. 16 Frequently some surrogate is used to measure effort relating to a given combination of inputs into fishing activity, such as the number of days spent fishing, the number of hooks used, and the size of boat capacity. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 3. Opportunities for the fisheries sector 43 Figure 9: Projected Annual Revenue under Different Levels of Long-Term Equilibrium Effort 300,000,000 250,000,000 Est. Revenue (US$, 2004-14 prices) 200,000,000 150,000,000 100,000,000 50,000,000 0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 Proportion of 2014 effort Groupers Snappers Croakers Sea Breams Threadfin Breams Pomfret Ribbonfish Grunters Catfish Demersal Elasmobranchs Kiddi Shrimp Large Shrimp Small Pelagics Source: Authors’ analysis (see Annex 1 for modelling approach). Rebuilding fisheries by reducing effort will, in the and reduced economic inefficiencies, which are ex- long term, produce more fish than would other- plored further below. wise be present. However, the future level of produc- tion may not be much higher than present production Effort management has already proven successful in quantity terms, because current production is high in Pakistan on a small scale. A partially closed season only due to unstainable overfishing. Current revenue for the shrimp fishery, which limited fishing at certain levels (US$288.6 million in 2014 for the equivalent points in the year, reportedly had positive impacts on group of fisheries) are being obtained at the expense of productivity and landing volumes. Enforcement is re- future revenues, which in the absence of policy change quired to ensure that closed seasons and gear restric- tions are respected. will be lower than both current revenues or the best future revenue scenario. Figure 9 shows the projected There may be limited potential for future increas- overall long-term annual revenue from the major com- es in marine fish production through more intense mercial fisheries under different effort levels. Improved exploitation of offshore mesopelagic resources. management will generate higher revenues (US$200 Some incremental potential exists in large pelagic spe- million to US$270 million in 2014 US$) than status-quo cies such as tuna and mackerel, species not affected by effort levels at an equivalent point in time (approxi- the overfishing analyzed above. These species can be mately US$115 million). Improved management will used for canning and other forms of processing. Tuna thus prevent a decrease or collapse in harvests, allowing and mackerel can also be processed raw (sashimi) or for current levels of fishing to be maintained. It is im- as loins (frozen). The largest incremental potential is for portant to note that these projections are conservative: mesopelagic lantern fish. These small fish are well suited they assume that fish prices remain the same, and that to making fishmeal as they do not currently serve high- value-chain improvements that might otherwise allow er-value markets. In this regard, the FRAPP notes that for greater value add do not occur. Greater economic “the prospect of large yields of high quality fishmeal benefit, relative to both present value and future values, from mesopelagic sources should provide a suitable al- can be derived from increased value-added processing ternative to the present ecologically and economically Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 3. Opportunities for the fisheries sector 44 Table 8: Total Net Present Value across 13 Species Groups, Over 30 Years (2014 US$ Millions) Median net present Confidence bounds Policy scenario Status quo comparison value (US$ millions) (US$ millions) Discount rate: 0.05 5th percentile 95th percentile Reform policy: 10-year capacity-reduction period; effort levels reduced to 858.3 460.4 1,107.5 approximate MSY Temporary reform policy: 10-year capacity-reduction period; effort levels reduced 447.5 290.4 608.7 to 0.75 of 2014 levels, then gradually return to status quo levels Fast reform policy: 5-year capacity-reduction period; effort levels reduced to 1,026.1 586.2 1,416.6 approximate MSY Fast and temporary reform policy: 5-year capacity-reduction period; effort levels 508.3 309.5 645.1 reduced to 0.75 of 2014 levels, then gradually return to status quo levels Targeted reform policy: 10-year capacity-reduction period; effort levels reduced to 1,007.7 592.5 1,184.3 MSY for each species group Fast and targeted reform policy: 5-year rebuilding period; effort levels reduced to 1,249.0 650.7 1,353.5 MSY for each species group Note: Figures are net against a status quo scenario of constant 2014 levels of effort, at a 5 percent discount rate. Net present value is calculated as the sum of cost savings and revenue increases from increased production due to effort reductions. Cost savings exclude wage savings (i.e. employment is treated as a social good). Production is calculated using a Schaefer-Gordon logistic model (see Annex 1). No price increases are assumed. Confidence bounds are based on a Monte Carlo analysis over three biological fisheries parameters. Input parameters are provided by Fanning et al. 2016. Source: Authors’ analysis (see Annex 1 for modelling approach). destructive ‘trash’ fishery to produce fishmeal” (Fanning is the driver of the severe drops in productivity (catch et al. 2016). per unit of effort) that has occurred over the past three decades. Reducing fishing effort helps to control uneco- There is also interest in mesopelagic resources as nomic expenditure, making fishing more profitable. Ma- a potential source of Omega 3 and higher-grade rine fisheries’ total profitability (revenues minus costs) is food products. Mesopelagic organisms are a source projected to be about US$65 million greater per year in of marine fat and protein, with the potential to con- 2030 and US$161 million greater in 2047 than under tribute to both economic and nutritional outcomes. a no-change scenario. These benefits do not accrue The Norwegian Institute of Marine Research is devel- evenly over time, however. In the very short term, a re- oping a research program to investigate the nutritional building period is required, which would impose costs value of various mesopelagic organisms. This work will on fishing operators in the form of restrictions. Only as explore the suitability of these organisms as ingredi- fish stocks start to grow again are benefits realized. The ents in both feed and food, including detailed analysis speed at which the fisheries rebuild depends on the of chemical composition and potential environmen- species, with fast-growing species like shrimp bouncing tal hazards (Norwegian Institute of Marine Research back most rapidly. 2017). The combined economic gains from increased ma- It is likely that fish harvests will increase in per- rine fish production and reduced costs are conser- unit value as the harvest quantity increases. Larger, vatively estimated at US$447-1,249 million over 30 healthier fish stocks produce larger, healthier, and more years. Table 8 presents expected net present values of valuable fish. The per-unit value of the fishery is expect- different policy reform options. All are based on effort ed to increase under improved management.17 reduction and do not distinguish between how it is achieved (for example, by vessel buybacks, season re- However, the biggest economic benefits would strictions, or other approaches). Policy variations mod- come from reductions in uneconomic expenditure. elled include a temporary reform policy (where effort is Under the current open-access conditions, fishing ves- reduced but eventually increases again, perhaps due to sels compete for fish. This harms both fish stock and a change in direction under future governments), a fast profits by incentivizing uneconomic competition. This reform policy (where effort is reduced over an ambitious 17 This benefit is not modelled by the analysis presented here, however, as it would require assumptions about fish prices that are difficult to make accurately with the available data. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 3. Opportunities for the fisheries sector 45 Figure 10: Projected Aquaculture Production Based on the Annual Average Growth Rate of Aquaculture in Bangladesh and India (at Equivalent Stages of Sector Development) 6,000 Historical and projected production (tons, thousands) 5,000 4,000 Projection 3,000 2,000 1,000 0 1950 1955 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 Bangladesh India Pakistan (status quo growth) Bangladesh and India Average Pakistan (historical and projected) Source: Authors’ analysis. five rather than ten years), and a targeted reform poli- and India are among the world’s five largest aquacul- cy (where management plans specific to each species ture-producing countries, while Pakistan ranks only take effect). All show positive returns, which includes 28th. In terms of growth, Pakistan’s aquaculture consid- the cost of fishing restrictions in terms of temporar- erably lags India’s and Bangladesh’s average rates over ily reduced harvests during the rebuilding period, but the past five years of 6.8 and 9.5 percent respectively. not the cost of enforcement and governance reform. Furthermore, Pakistan’s rate of growth is behind these It should be noted that these estimates do not include countries’ rates during similar periods of their aquacul- potential substantial benefits from increased value-add ture industry’s development. When India’s aquaculture in the processing sector, higher fish prices, or changes production was about 150,000 tons per year, Pakistan’s to other components of the fisheries sector, such as in- current size, it was growing at about 11 percent per land fisheries. Estimates also do not include substantial year (averaged over the five years prior). Bangladesh’s value paid out in wages. equivalent was above 10 percent. This compares to Pakistan’s current growth (five-year average) of just 1.5 percent, despite continued strong demand for aquacul- 3.3. Opportunities from ture products globally. Pakistan had a short period of Aquaculture Development fast growth about 15 years ago, but it has more recently Aquaculture presents opportunities to diversify tailed off. Putting aquaculture on a growth trajectory production away from marine fisheries and fuel that matches its neighbors at their equivalent stages of significant growth in overall fish production. Aqua- aquaculture development would mean annual produc- culture is among the fastest-growing food production tion of more than 2 million tons after 30 years (Figure sectors globally, substantially outpacing world popula- 10). By comparison, current growth rates lead to a sector tion and economic growth, with an average growth rate producing around 240 thousand tons after 30 years. of 5.8 percent in the decade from 2005 to 2014. In Pa- kistan, the growth of aquaculture over the same period Pakistan can already point to examples of high was much lower, 2.3 percent, with production currently returns from private sector investment in aqua- standing at about 150,000 tons per year. culture. Recent studies have examined private returns to fish farming in Pakistan, focusing on semi-intensive Pakistan’s quantities are small relative to produc- freshwater carp and tilapia operations in Punjab and tion in neighboring countries (Table 1). Bangladesh brackish water carp culture in Sindh that have cost- ben- Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 3. Opportunities for the fisheries sector 46 Fresh, raw shrimp at market (ieang, iStockphoto) Table 9: Comparison of Shrimp Production and Exports—Pakistan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and India Pakistan (2014) Bangladesh (2014) Myanmar (2013) India (2013) Production (tons, live weight) 18,628 241,117 101,409 743,798 Proportion farmed (%) 0 61 32 45 Exports (tons) 13,211 109,000 22,000 426,000 Proportion exported (%) 71 45 35 57 Export value (US$ millions) 75 500 335 3,100 Source: FAO 2016b. efit ratios at 1.17:2.0 and 1.37:1.51, respectively. In the region, Pakistan has not developed coastal aquaculture 1990s, ADB financed a US$15 million project that con- despite export opportunities and suitable environmen- structed demonstration fish farms and hatcheries, and tal conditions (Table 9). Potential exists for shrimp farm- improved extension, training, and data collection sys- ing. Globally, shrimp is one of the most important seg- tems in three provinces (ADB 1997). Upon completion ments of the fisheries market, representing more than of the project, the estimated annual value of fish pro- 16 percent of its global trade in value terms, of which duction was US$13 million. Within six years, the project aquaculture shrimp accounts for about 58 percent. De- directly helped expand the country’s commercial aqua- velopment of this industry in Pakistan could boost sup- culture industry, adding more than 1,700 new, profitable plies for export while supporting the recovery of sus- small enterprises. Further programs that aim to realize tainable wild supplies. the potential of aquaculture in Pakistan could harness a similar strategy of targeted public-private partnership The Governments of Sindh and Balochistan have investment in key parts of the aquaculture value chain. recognized the opportunities for shrimp farming within their provinces. A recent pilot-scale operation, Pakistan also has potential for commercial aqua- producing the introduced species white shrimp P. van- culture on its coastline. Unlike other nations in the namei, has shown initial success and profitability.18 The 18 See, for example, “Pakistan Reliance Aquafarms,” press release, January 2016, Shrimp News International, http://www.shrimpnews.com/FreeReportsFolder/NewsRe- portsFolder/PakistanRelianceAquafarms.html. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 3. Opportunities for the fisheries sector 47 facility has now been functioning for five years. A na- 3.5. Opportunities to Improve tive species, Penaeus monodon, has also been trialed. Balochistan has developed a Shrimp Farming Policy Food Security and Nutrition to drive the development of state and private land for Greater consumption of fish in Pakistan could shrimp farming. However, great care must be taken to support efforts to improve food insecurity and avoid the environmental damage that shrimp farming reduce malnutrition. Pakistan greatly needs better has caused in other countries, such as loss of man- sources of nutrition: 50 percent of women and chil- groves, which support wild fish breeding. dren (under 5 years of age) are malnourished, and 44 percent of children are stunted physically and cogni- tively (ILO 2016). Increasing fish consumption, par- 3.4. Opportunities from Enhanced ticularly among the poor, could help: Fish is a good Fish Processing and Exports source of proteins and healthy fats, and essential nu- trients such as long-chain Omega-3 fatty acids, iodine, Improving value-added production is one of the vitamin D, and calcium. Fish is also highly beneficial for most feasible ways to improve the economic con- child development and cognition (Lind et al. 2015 and tribution of the fisheries sector. Post-harvest process- Michaelsen et al. 2011). Fish consumption by mothers ing in Pakistan is hampered by widespread poor-quality of young infants causes a better fatty acid profile in control and outdated technologies. Much of the sector’s breastmilk, benefiting brain development (Lauritzen capacity is focused on lower-grade products such as et al 2002). Studies from Bangladesh show that the fishmeal. Limited ability in high-quality and certified risk of child mortality is lower for children born during processing inhibits Pakistan’s access to lucrative export peak fishing seasons to mothers who eat fish (Bennett markets. Through systematic improvements in handling et al. 2018). and storage techniques, current high levels of spoilage could be reduced and fish quality increased, allowing The fisheries sector can improve food security and reaping of higher value from the existing catch. nutrition both through direct and indirect path- ways. Greater fish production, particularly aquaculture, Experience shows that incremental changes can can mean that Pakistani families will eat more fish, ei- make significant impacts on the competitiveness ther that they have produced themselves or bought and value of Pakistan’s fishery exports. In response from small fishing operations. Greater production can to the EU’s export ban (see Box 10), more than 2,000 have positive indirect effects through stabilized pric- Pakistani fishing vessels were upgraded to comply with es and greater availability in local markets. Growth in hygiene standards. The management of fish harbor fa- the fisheries sector may also provide jobs and boost cilities was improved, and traceability scanning systems incomes, allowing for improved consumption of nutri- were installed in processing plants, to conform to EU re- tious food in general (Figure 11). Experience suggests quirements. In parallel, the Government invested more that development of the fisheries sector can be pro- than US$800,000 in the renovation of fish auction halls poor in boosting their fish consumption. In Bangladesh, and fishing vessels. Consequently, in March 2013 the EU development of the sector raised fish consumption, lifted the six-year import ban on fishery products from and did so most among the poor and rural segments of Pakistan and, as an initial step, resumed imports from the population. (relative to their initial consumption). two seafood companies. Exports to non-EU internation- The Bangladesh experience also suggests that mar- al markets also increased. Three more processing plants ket-mediated pathways to improved food security and are currently seeking EU approval. nutrition are the most likely routes to change, includ- ing for the very poor. Low-income fish producers may EU countries, Japan, and the United States are the prefer to sell their fish, given that they are a high value world’s biggest export markets for seafood, yet at product, rather than consume them, but that could present, they account for less than 3 percent of allow purchase of other high-nutrient foods (Toufique Pakistan’s fisheries export earnings (about US$9.3 and Belton 2014). million annually). Pakistan’s fisheries could capture a bigger percentage of these markets. However, to meet However, certain cultural preferences must be con- EU and U.S. quality standards, processing plants and sidered. Improving nutrition and food security through supply chain management of Pakistan seafood will increased fish consumption may face preference and need to improve further. New industry standards—and cultural constraints. Fish consumption in Pakistan is compliance with those standards—will be crucial. amongst the lowest in the world, about 2 kg per year Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 3. Opportunities for the fisheries sector 48 Figure 11: Pathways for the Impact of Fisheries on Food Security and Nutrition Improved food security and nutrition via fish consumption Increased consumption of fish from Increased availability of fish in markets own production Lower, more stable fish prices Direct Indirect Increased income from own fish Increased employment in fisheries productiorn Increased employment in fisheries value-chains Improved food security and nutrition via increased incomes Source: Adapted from Toufique and Belton 2014. per capita, compared to a global average of 17 kg. This Greater Government promotion of new forms of is indicative of the minor role that fish play in Pakistan’s polyculture could boost incomes and food security. traditional food culture. Developing a taste for fish may The Government could signal increased recognition of not occur rapidly or at all. However, large shifts in food fish for nutrition and income at a high level by explicitly preferences have occurred in Pakistan in the past: Chick- including fish in the National Food Security Policy. Exten- en consumption and production grew rapidly through sion activities could promote alternative forms of poly- the 1970s and 80s with supportive government policies, culture focused on boosting nutrition and women-led and chicken is now a commonly consumed source of enterprises, based on the successful adoption of these protein. technologies in other countries in the region (see Box 7). Box 7: The Potential for Improved Nutrition through Small-Fish Polyculture Certain culturable fish species, indigenous to South Asia, are particularly high in the micronutrients required to address hidden hunger and child stunting. Hidden hunger is a type of malnutrition that occurs when intake and absorption of im- portant vitamins and minerals (including zinc, iodine, and iron) are too low to ensure good health and development. Hidden hunger affects about 2 billion people worldwide (IFPRI 2014). Several indigenous small fish have the potential to address hidden hunger and child stunting in Pakistan (IUCN 2015). These fish are small-size species, rather than juveniles of larger species, and include Amblypharyngodon mola, found in the wild in Sindh Province. A growing body of evidence suggests that when consumed whole, with bones and head, these species provide concentrated and highly bioavailable minerals and vitamins, essential fatty acids, and animal protein. Research has shown culture of mola to be cost-effective in Bangladesh. They reproduce quickly, and can be stocked in ex- isting homestead aquaculture ponds that contain larger fish, such as carp, that do not prey on these small fish. While most larger cultured species fetch a higher market value and are thus typically sold for cash income, small fish are more likely to be consumed directly within the household, providing nutritional benefits. Sale of a proportion of the small fish harvest can also provide a new source of income for households, particularly women. Field trials in Bangladesh suggests that small fish increase the overall productivity of a pond per hectare and therefore the economic value of each harvest (Castine et al. 2017). Transfer and adaptation of culturing methods could replicate Bangla- desh’s success in Pakistan. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 3. Opportunities for the fisheries sector Chapter 4 Critical challenges and needs in the fisheries sector Karachi is located along the western edge of the Indus River Delta (Nasa, Earth Observatory) 51 To move toward sustainable management of Paki- 4.1.2. Legislative and Policy Gaps stan’s fisheries, and to derive the greater socio-eco- nomic value described in the previous section, crit- Fisheries legislation and regulations are fragment- ical challenges must be addressed. Overcapacity in ed across laws and institutions at both the Federal fishing fleets, illegal fishing, and a lack of surveillance and Provincial levels. The dissolution of the Ministry and licensing are causing overfishing and thus dimin- of Livestock and Dairy Development in 2010 and the ished quantity and quality of yields, both in marine and transfer of different elements of fisheries governance inland capture fisheries. Insufficient infrastructure and and management to different line ministries have re- processing standards reduce quality, market access, and sulted in a highly fragmented governance system. This value add of fish products. Aquaculture is growing, but was exacerbated by changes under the Eighteenth only slowly, and international experience suggests that Constitutional Amendment of 2010 which transferred with the right policy settings, it could contribute more executive powers to the Provinces, including control to socio-economic development than it currently is. This over Zones II and III of the EEZ. The original Fisheries section explores the changes required to achieve the Act (1897) now operates as a Provincial law under the sector’s potential. residuary legislative and executive power of the Prov- inces, with Federal fisheries legislation mainly limited to the Exclusive Fishery Zone (Regulation of Fishing) 4.1. Challenges in Marine Act (1975) and the Pakistan Fish Inspection and Quality Capture Fisheries Control Act (1997). This fragmented framework results in the following challenges: 4.1.1. Overfishing 1. While the country has legislation that covers most The message from the FRAPP is clear: Pakistan’s aspects of fisheries management and control, some major marine fisheries are either fully or over-ex- of this legislation is dated, and does not fully reflect ploited. The major commercial fish stocks face consid- the increasingly devolved nature of marine fisheries erable overfishing, and in some instances, are already in Pakistan. depleted. Unless fishing effort is reduced, especially in the demersal finfish and shrimp trawl fisheries, stocks 2. Some international commitments have not yet been and harvests will continue to decline, with major eco- addressed. logical and socio-economic consequences. 3. Some modern aspects of fisheries legislation, such as There is a need to reduce fishing effort to below the precautionary principle and the ecosystem ap- scientifically-informed thresholds to maximize (or proach, are yet to be integrated into the over-arching at least improve) yields. Until FRAPP, robust, quantita- Fisheries Act and its subordinate legislation. tive stock assessments had been lacking, preventing de- velopment of Fisheries Management Plans (FMPs). Such 4. Authorities have limited control over fishing capacity, plans define a marine harvest strategy and aim to limit which holds back regulation of indiscriminate fishing exploitation to agreed-on thresholds such as maximum practices that damage stocks and ecosystems. sustainable yield (see Box 13). At present, Pakistan’s ma- rine fisheries are largely open access, with few effective 5. Local governments need the power to establish mechanisms to limit fishing effort through input con- additional management measures (such as spatial trols, such as the number of fishing licenses, or output or temporal closures, or gear restrictions) if specific controls, such as a quota system. Sustainability requires local requirements make such steps necessary and a long-term strategy on fleet capacity. appropriate. The bottom trawl fleets are removing juvenile fish Pakistan needs a review of fisheries legislation for use in fishmeal production, reducing later adult to inform the legislative and regulatory chang- stocks that could be harvested for higher-value es necessary to ensure sustainability. There is also purposes. This practice is a major contributor to stock a need for formal definitions for small-scale or coastal diminishment. Pakistan needs a multi-faceted approach fishing boats. Many currently-defined “coastal vessels” to reducing juvenile catch. This could include technical are in fact capable of fishing in deep waters, creating measures such as minimum mesh sizes and minimum conflict or loopholes in terms of what regulations apply landing sizes, and economic disincentives for non-hu- to whom. One bright spot is the new Deep-Sea Fishing man use of fish. Policy 2016 (Ministry of Ports and Shipping 2016), which Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 4. Critical challenges and needs in the fisheries sector 52 provides greater clarity over jurisdictional boundaries in seasonal information, just annual totals. Collection marine waters. of adequate data would add considerably to research and allow better management of the marine fisheries While fisheries administrations generally have sector. It is difficult to develop effective FMPs without adequate staffing in terms of numbers, public ad- this information. ministrative capacity remains limited. Greater in- vestment in the Marine Fisheries Department, in terms Timely, publicly available data are particularly lim- of outlays for operational budgets, would allow an ex- ited. One important exception is the FRAPP, which pro- pansion of activities beyond simply maintaining its staff. vided valuable information on stock status. However, a Many senior staff positions are currently vacant. More one-off research effort is not sufficient for ongoing fish- broadly, responsibilities between fisheries administra- eries management. Research and data capacity must be tions at Federal and Provincial levels would benefit from strengthened long-term. adjustments, such as a concentration of SPS authority in a new Federal SPS agency. Regulatory aspects of fish- 4.1.4. Threats to Coastal and Marine eries (such as licensing, inspection, and monitoring) Ecosystems should be separated from policy and strategy develop- ment functions to avoid conflicts of interest. Marine and coastal ecosystems face serious threats. Excessive exploitation, mismanagement, and Monitoring, control, and surveillance (MCS) is a pollution have caused degradation of fisheries-centered multi-jurisdictional affair in Pakistan and is limit- ecosystems. This puts at risk fish resources that depend ed particularly in coastal zones. The Pakistan Mari- on these ecosystems. time Security Authority (PMSA) has a well-established role in fisheries enforcement and protection in Federal Threats to mangroves in the Indus Delta are a par- waters (those beyond 12 nautical miles), and benefits ticular concern due to this ecosystem’s role in pro- from its wide range of assets and military capabilities. viding habitat for breeding fish. Mangroves cover an However, it has less capacity to operate effectively in estimated 160,000 hectares of the Indus Delta and de- shallow, coastal waters. In waters off Balochistan, this pend on fresh water flows from the Indus River. An esti- role has been taken up by the Provincial fisheries de- mated 80 percent of fish caught in coastal waters spend partment. There is a case for developing Sindh Prov- part of their life cycles in mangrove creeks, or depend ince’s capability to systematically police the Indus Delta on the food web within the mangrove ecosystem (Ab- creek network, utilizing local intelligence and fast, shal- bas et al. 2017). These mangroves have greatly declined low-draft patrol vessels to respond to infringements. in extent and variety. In the 1970s, the total area of the In waters beyond three nautical miles, a coordinated delta covered by mangroves was more than 30 percent response between the Province and PMSA is more larger than today (Amjad et al. 2016). Of eight species realistic. There is a need to develop a National Plan of observed in surveys in the 1960s, only three remained in Action (NPOA) for illegal, unreported and unregulated 1996 (Kidwai et al. 2016). These declines are due to hu- (IUU) fishing that confirms institutional responsibilities man alterations of waterways such as the construction and sets out basic principles for combating this type of of barrages and dams on the Indus, coastal urbaniza- fishing in all of Pakistan. tion, and climate change. In addition to reducing area of mangrove coverage, these drivers are diminishing fresh- water flows and increasing storm surges (Panwhar et al. 4.1.3. Data and Research Gaps 2015), which in turn increase salinity to the detriment At present, decision makers in Pakistan do not of mangroves. have access to quality science and information to facilitate sustainable use of marine resources. Industrial and domestic pollution is also a ma- Knowledge of the status of the marine environment jor hazard to aquatic ecosystems. Karachi produc- and the social and economic processes that affect it is es almost 500 million gallons of wastewater per day, indispensable for effective decision-making. one-fifth of which is industrial waste. This waste is dis- charged into coastal waters. As much as 87 percent of For example, current fisheries statistics do not in- hazardous waste from industries flows into the Arabian clude detailed information on the species being Sea untreated. Karachi generates a further 12,000 tons caught, just broad groups, do not track gear and of municipal solid waste daily, much of which ends up effort, just the number of boats, and include no in coastal waters. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 4. Critical challenges and needs in the fisheries sector 53 Mangroves near Karachi, Sindh (Danishkhan, iStockphoto) Given the dependence of coastal and offshore fish- Reform, and the Provincial planning and development eries on mangroves, loss of these forests will result departments, but limited awareness among officers in reduced production of commercially important prevents adequate targeting to needy fishing commu- fish, harming commercial fishery and local com- nities in coastal and inland areas. munities that depend on fish as a primary source of sustenance (Amjad et al. 2016). As such, investment In its current five-year development plan (2013- to better manage and protect mangroves will have mul- 18), the Government of Pakistan has recognized tiplier effects for livelihoods, improved environmental that existing social welfare programs, services, and health, and storm-related disaster preparedness. funding are insufficient, and has proposed a strat- egy to improve social welfare services (Ministry 4.1.5. Vulnerability of Small-Scale of Planning Development and Reform 2013). The Fishers and Fisheries extent to which this will benefit fishing communities is, however, unclear. Some fishers have migrated out of Coastal communities of small-scale fishers have economic necessity. There is a need for changes in wel- been hit particularly hard by the decline in fish fare services for women left behind in communities that numbers. For some communities, fishing is no longer are both environmentally and socially constrained. In a viable source of income. While the Food Security Pol- this context, the needs of small-scale fisheries and fish- icy encompasses a range of social protection measures ers could be better served by improving understanding for the wellbeing of fishers, the policy could use greater of baseline conditions and implementing the FAO Vol- clarity as to who are the target groups for such mea- untary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale sures. Provision of welfare support is enshrined in the Fisheries in the Context of Food Security and Poverty mandate of the Ministry of Planning Development and Eradication (Box 12) (FAO 2015b).19 19 In 2014, the FAO’s Committee on Fisheries adopted the Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries in the Context of Food Security and Poverty Eradica- tion. The guidelines recognize the key role that small-scale fishing communities play in contributing to poverty alleviation and food security. The guidelines support investing in health, literacy, and education, eradicating forced labor, promoting social security protection, mandating gender mainstreaming, and building fisheries’ resistance to climate change and extreme weather events. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 4. Critical challenges and needs in the fisheries sector 54 Fishers’ associations exist, but these do not appear 4.2.2. Threats to Fresh Water to have sufficient recognition or to be substantial Ecosystems enough to represent the interests of small-scale fishers in discussions with government. Active rep- Pakistan’s wetlands and lakes face environmental resentation is required if small fishing communities are threats. In Sindh, these include the reduction of fresh to have meaningful input in the crafting of fisheries pol- water flows due to diversion for irrigation, pollution run- icy. off from agriculture and other land uses that result in eutrophication, the introduction of invasive species, and overfishing (Box 8). 4.2. Challenges in Inland The Indus riverine ecosystem is also at risk. Harmful Fisheries trends include infrastructure development, depletion 4.2.1. Inefficiencies and Inequities in of riverine forests, land use change, industrial activities, Inland Fisheries Management dumping of municipal and industrial waste, and con- struction of upstream and riparian water diversions. Hu- The system of auctioning short-term fishing man alteration of the river and canals under the Indus rights is not ideal for sustainability and equity Waters Treaty works have substantially impacted habi- because it does not encourage investment (in- tats needed to support productive fisheries. As a result, cluding restocking) by rights-holders that would the potential to significantly increase fish production increase yields. This system of contracts may also from the riverine and flood plain fishery remains limit- prevent people who lack access to credit, including in- ed. Further degradation should at least be avoided. digenous fishers, from obtaining fishing rights. Bidding in auctions requires substantial capital, which restricts Several inland aquatic species are threatened or participation to the relatively well-off. Fishers may endangered. These include the Indus River Dolphin end up working for the winning contractor or being (Platanista minor), several of the larger species of Ma- allowed to fish in return for a proportion of their catch sheer (Tor), and the Snow Trout (Schizothorax richard- or earnings. sonii). Sub-contracting is officially prohibited, but is re- ported to happen anyway. This situation has forced 4.3. Challenges in Aquaculture some fishers to seek underpaid manual labor as a sup- Development plementary source of income, to migrate, or to take on high levels of debt. 4.3.1. Biosecurity and Environmental Health Risks The economic contribution of inland fisheries is also hampered by limited supporting infrastruc- Aquatic animal health (AAH) surveillance and con- ture. While most production from inland fisheries is trol are limited. This is despite the existence of an local, improvements to facilities such as landing sites, Animal Quarantine Ordinance, and a requirement for chilling units, and market facilities would increase val- importers of live aquatic organisms for aquaculture to ue-add. show health certification evidence on import. There are currently no requirement or facilities for quarantining. There is no culture of stakeholder participation Pakistan has only limited diagnostic capacity concern- in decision-making on resource management. A ing fish disease. In sum, the country is currently unable common conclusion from international experience is to effectively safeguard its own industry and faces chal- that bringing stakeholders together to address gover- lenges in fulfilling international obligations regarding nance challenges is vital to sustainable management. fish diseases that require notification. Communities must be empowered to make decisions locally and to take actions that meet local opportuni- For example, Pakistan’s fisheries departments and ties and problems (Pomeroy and Rivera-Guieb 2006). A universities currently have no capacity in shrimp key enabler for improved inland capture fisheries could viral diagnostics. Globally, 60 percent of disease losses be a shift towards more inclusive co-management in shrimp culture are caused by viral pathogens. Pakistan arrangements, where responsibility for making and is currently free of shrimp viruses, a major competitive- enforcing management decisions is shared with local ness advantage over other countries, and it should aim communities. to maintain this status by developing capacity to spot Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 4. Critical challenges and needs in the fisheries sector 55 Box 8: The Decline of the Manchar and Keenjhar Lakes Manchar and Keenjhar Lakes are Pakistan’s largest and second largest lakes respectively. Manchar Lake, in Sindh, is also one of Asia’s largest shallow lakes. Over the last three decades, its water quality has degraded to the point that it is now considered a “dead lake.” Degradation occurred because of a loss of freshwater inflows due to diversion works and agricultural runoff. The worsening water quality and consequent loss of biodiversity have harmed the communities that for generations have depended on the lake. The annual fish catch from the lake has dropped from 3,000 tons in 1950 to 300 tons in 1994 and to less than 100 today. The pollution and salinity of water in the lake has made it difficult for fish to survive—most commercially viable species have disappeared. Currently only 4,000 to 5,000 people live on the lake, compared to 20,000 in the 1980s. Many fishing families have moved to Balochistan to find alternative livelihoods. Remaining fishers mostly depend on fish called dhayya, which are sold at very low value for chicken feed. A survey of communities living on the lake found that incomes had declined by 40 percent due to lower fishing profitability. Simultaneously, costs of living increased due to a need to buy clean water for domestic use (once provided by lake water) and a rise in illnesses due to water contamination (WWF 2012). Keenjhar Lake, also in Sindh, is an important water source for Karachi and other cities. It is a wildlife sanctuary and a site for migratory birds, recognized under the Ramsar convention for wetlands. It has experienced a decline in fish resources over the years (Table 10) due largely to over-exploitation, fishing of juvenile stocks, and illegal fishing methods. In addition, the ecology has suffered from freshwater diversions, urban and agricultural water pollution, and the introduction of alien spe- cies. When fish were abundant, about 80-90 percent of local communities engaged in fishing. This has now fallen to about 40 percent (Table 11). Table 10: Decline in Commercial Fish Production from Keenjhar Lake Year Total fish catch (kg) 2001-02 194,861 2002-03 178,839 2003-04 59,037 2004-05 27,351 Source: WWF 2007. Table 11: Decline in Number of Fishers and Boats on Keenjhar Lake Year Number of fishers Number of boats 1988-89 24,355 2,200 1998-99 11,900 1,710 2005-06 10,320 820 Source: WWF 2007. and counter virus threats. Imported shrimp species such regarding heavy metal pollution from industrial and ag- as Litopenaeus vannamei (exotic to Pakistan) should be ricultural sources and the metals’ accumulation in cul- handled using a precautionary approach. tured fish (Chatta et al. 2016). In addition to disease risks, new aquaculture op- 4.3.2. Insufficient Input Infrastructure erations must consider potential environmental health risks. Currently, farmers in canal areas receive There is a need for public and private sector in- water in proportion to their land holding and make their vestment in seed infrastructure that supports a own “crop” selections. Fish is considered to be a crop, like growing aquaculture industry. While seed for carp wheat or rice, for which land alteration without permit- and tilapia is available domestically, seed for more na- ting can include creation of fish ponds. In Punjab, canal scent parts of the industry such as sea bass and shrimp water is often supplemented from a freshwater aquifer. is not. It is currently imported, mostly from Thailand at Tapping water from young sediments, however, risks relatively high costs, by a small number of pilot projects. arsenic contamination. There is also increasing concern Domestic hatcheries could provide quality fish seed to Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 4. Critical challenges and needs in the fisheries sector 56 spur industry growth. High quality broodstock requires 4.4. Challenges in Post-Harvest research and refined breeding techniques. Across South Asia, governments have promoted aquaculture through Activities public provision of large, centralized hatcheries. In Pa- 4.4.1. Low-Value Use of Fish Resources kistan, a public-private partnership model may also be suitable, where government facilities run genetic im- The catching of juveniles of premium species of provement programs to supply broodstock which pri- demersal fish, such as threadfin beams, croakers, vate hatcheries then use to produce seed. and small pelagic fish (which could be bulk fro- zen for human consumption), represents a major The industry would benefit from development of loss of nutrition and value added to the Pakistani local and cost-effective sources of feed. Replacing fishery sector, estimated at US$60 million per year. fishmeal with other inputs (such as soy, see Box 1) is Exporters of products for human consumption obtain necessary to prevent additional pressure on depleted average values of about US$2,500 per ton, compared to marine stocks. A quality fish feed industry is beginning US$1,000 per ton for fishmeal. to emerge in Punjab. Ultimately, cost of feed, quality, and supply are central determinants of the economic Too many fishmeal plants are currently operating, viability and environmental footprint of the country’s creating a demand for input material. This demand aquaculture enterprises. drives overfishing by trawl vessels. As a result, Pakistan is the only country in the world that operates a trawl 4.3.3. Legislative and Policy Gaps fishery targeted at demersal fish for fishmeal produc- tion. Improving the fish size selectivity of trawl vessels’ An updated national policy framework, with de- gear would reduce the supply of under-size raw materi- lineated responsibilities between levels of govern- al. Policy options could include regulation and auctions ment, would help end uncertainty for private-sec- for operating licenses, with the medium-term objective tor investment. This could entail Federal responsibility reducing the fishmeal sector to a size that is appropriate over certification and quarantine, zoning, and manage- to the availability of fish which have no other use (see ment of international issues, and provincial and territori- also Box 5). al responsibility over registration and monitoring of fish farms, abstraction and discharge consents, environmen- 4.4.2. Poor Post-Harvest Facilities and tal impact assessments, notifiable disease monitoring, Handling and food safety. Based on principles of central coordina- tion and decentralized implementation, this could build While the waters of Pakistan produce fish of good upon the unimplemented National Policy and Strategy innate quality, their value is undermined by poor for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development in Pakistan handling and preservation of the catch. Many (Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Livestock 2007), and fishing vessels stay out at sea for long periods, with might require an audit of current legislation. poor storage facilities on board. Reported yield of ex- port-quality catch from a 15-day trip is less than a fifth Governments need to identify sites suitable for of that from a one-day trip. aquaculture and establish zones for development to ensure that environmental and biosecurity risks Substandard landing facilities contribute to fur- are contained, and social conflicts minimized. Once ther post-harvest losses. Karachi Fishing Harbor is spatial zoning is complete, governments could imple- over-crowded with both active and inactive vessels, ment a land lease policy enabling investors to purchase and working areas are heavily congested. A larger or rent land for aquaculture start-ups. share of landing and processing operations could be moved to the underutilized Korangi Harbor, as was in- There is currently no authorization process that tended during the harbor’s construction. This would directly regulates setting up a fish farm in Paki- require upgrades to power, water, and fish handling stan, and licensing is not required. This may hinder infrastructure. efforts to prevent environmental harm and minimize social conflict over resources as aquaculture expands. Most processors operate inefficiently, covering It may also thwart efforts to enforce the spatial zoning marginal costs only. Fish processing is substantial- described above. Moreover, the lack of an authorization ly undercapitalized and most of the factories are old. process means that data collection is limited. Modern management methods such as Hazard Anal- Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 4. Critical challenges and needs in the fisheries sector 57 ysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP), a food safety management system, are applied poorly or not at all. 4.5. Challenges in As a result, few establishments have achieved interna- Market Access and Trade tionally recognized standards for food safety or quality. Competitiveness Export processors typically cannot source product of export grade from port auctions and are increasingly 4.5.1. Insufficient Connections to seeking to buy directly from fishers. Processors have Domestic Markets also commenced import of fish from Southeast Asian There is a need for information on habits of do- suppliers, mostly low-value aquaculture products for mestic fish consumption. This information could the domestic market. For example, Pangasius fillets are guide decisions on how much the sector should focus imported from Vietnam and sold to supermarkets and on international markets versus domestic promotion. caterers. The recent increase in imports suggests that domestic consumption of fish can be increased; systematic in- An underlying reason for this inefficiency is un- formation is needed to guide effective promotion to derutilization of capacity. Reductions in the supply capture a larger share of this market segment. of marine capture fisheries will worsen this problem, in the short term, at least, further discouraging investment Purchasers could take advantage of domestic op- in value-adding activities. The longer-term objective is portunities by coordinating among themselves to establish effective resource management to ensure more closely. A buyers’ network or other alliance could sustainable supply and develop alternative sources of create codes of production practice, to ensure consis- supply from aquaculture. tent quality and safety of fish products. At present, the seafood supply sector is not fully connected to the rap- 4.4.3. Missed Opportunities for Value idly growing middle-income sector in Pakistan, which is Addition instead being served by imports. Government purchas- ing departments could also play a role by ensuring, for Opportunities are lost through the practice of example, safe and nutritional supply for hospitals, the trans-shipping much of the skipjack and yellowfin armed forces, and nursing homes. The public-sector role tunas catch at sea to Iranian vessels for canning in is not necessarily to create new demand for product, Iran. Pakistani vessel operators report they have no way but to create demand for the coordination required to to legally land product in Iranian ports, which would improve quality and safety. allow their product to be registered as an export. The tuna could alternatively be processed in Pakistan, either Most broadly, the creation of greater value-added as fresh tuna for the EU market, or as cannery supply via improvements in post-harvesting processes for Pakistan and other markets. One operator is report- will increase the competitiveness of Pakistan’s fish edly seeking finance for such an operation, using Chi- sector both in high-value domestic markets and in- nese-owned vessels operating under charter arrange- ternational markets. This requires reforms to resource ments, but has been held up by difficulty in obtaining management to ensure sustainable and high-quality licenses. supply, as well as investment in processing methods and supporting infrastructure. Other than for pilot-scale farming of shrimp in Sindh Province, there is very little processing of products of aquaculture. Produced carp/rohu, tilapia, 4.5.2. Tariff and Certification Barriers and trout are consigned from farms direct to markets via to Competitiveness sales agents, who either place product with customers Current tariff structures do not optimally promote or sell by auction in larger population centers. Improved sector development. Some degree of tariff protection organization of producers and investment in packing on consumer products may be necessary to protect the plants could create higher return on investment for domestic sector from cheap imports and incentivize in- producers. This could serve the small but growing do- vestment, at least while the sector makes the necessary mestic market—there is no obvious potential for tilapia efficiency gains to compete effectively. Simultaneously, production for export given strong competition from tariffs that increase the cost of vital inputs (for example, other countries in Asia. inputs for aquaculture operations) should be reduced. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 4. Critical challenges and needs in the fisheries sector 58 Better compliance with SPS measures and tech- Table 12: Examples of Certification Types nical barriers to trade would speed access to in- Typically Required of Shrimp Farmers and ternational markets. The federal government needs Exporters more clearly defined institutional arrangements: at present, import and export SPS responsibilities are split Sustainability Food Safety between different ministries. The resulting SPS regu- •• Aquaculture •• British Retail Consortium lation is in general insufficient. There is a need for im- Stewardship Council •• ISO 22000 Food Safety Standard proved coordination between the Federal Government •• Best Aquaculture •• International Featured Standards (IFS) Practices •• Safe Quality Food (SQF) 2000 Standard (responsible for trade policy and SPS oversight) and •• GLOBAL G.A.P. •• Hazard Analysis and Critical Control provincial governments (responsible for development (aquaculture Points (HACCP) of fishery regulations). Pakistan cannot afford to lose standard) access to lucrative markets such as the EU and Saudi Source: Compiled by authors. Arabia, as has occurred in the past due to compliance issues (see Box 6). These issues are explored in more 4.5.3. Congestion Barriers to depth in Section 0. Competitiveness A lack of certain technical measures that limit the As previously noted, the Karachi Fishing Harbor is ecosystem impacts of the fisheries can also hurt over-crowded with both active and inactive ves- competitiveness. Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs), for sels, and working areas are heavily congested. The instance, are required on vessels to ensure their catch fishing harbors in Balochistan are less crowded, but are can access certain international markets. A U.S. inspec- only lightly used due to undercapitalization. These fa- tion team visited Pakistan in 2014, 2016, and 2017, ob- cilities need new investment if they are to aid in future serving vessels operating from Karachi Fish Harbor and development of the industry. There is an opportunity Baba Bhit Island, and concluded that TED use was insuf- to develop seafood clusters or business park initiatives ficient. As a result, Pakistan’s certification to export wild- that could drive added value, such as a proposed “blue caught shrimps to the United States was suspended in growth cluster” at Korangi (Box 9). May 2017. The U.S. Department of State stated that it is willing to conduct a future inspection and consider 4.5.4. The Need for a National re-certifying Pakistan when all shrimp trawlers supply- Innovation Plan ing exports to the United States operate with TEDs. A national innovation policy was outlined in 2012, Certification to private standards contribute to but not adopted. In terms of innovation, Pakistan sits competitiveness (Table 12). In addition to official well below the majority of its competitor countries with- certification for compliance to SPS measures (see Sec- in the industry. Limited and uncoordinated investment tion 4.6), a frequent de facto condition for access to in public research concerning commercial requirements certain markets is certification to private standards has left gaps in knowledge and technology that are which buyers require as part of their contractual re- needed to advance processing in the sector. lationship with suppliers. Increasing public concern regarding environmental and social impacts of fish The National Science, Technology and Innovation production is often expressed in buyer requirements Policy details improvements in research and devel- for certification. opment, including components that are directly rel- evant to the fisheries sector (Ministry of Science and Business operators in the supply chain need to put in Technology 2012). However, this policy is not linked to place food safety systems and sustainability practic- the national FDB, which has its own planning, research es, including full chain traceability, to be able to meet and development committee, or to the provincial and customer demands for certification. The establishment territorial fisheries departments. Coordination would im- of accredited certifying bodies for these standards in Paki- prove research and development outcomes. stan would almost certainly reduce the cost of certification and compliance. Meeting the terms of multiple certifica- 4.5.5. Human Capital tion systems for multiple international markets can present considerable challenges, both in terms of cost and com- The International Labour Organization (ILO) states plexity, especially for small- and medium-sized operators. that “human capital is one of the principal enablers Nonetheless, it can pay off in the long term. of trade growth and economic diversification”— Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 4. Critical challenges and needs in the fisheries sector 59 Box 9: Seafood Clusters to Improve Competitiveness The concept of a seafood cluster or hub was proposed in the mid-2000s based on UNIDO’s experience operating successful clusters and on the UK Seafood cluster. UNIDO and the Pakistan Government considered the creation of a cluster in 2013. Korangi Harbor was initially planned as the site due to its function as a higher value capture port. The seafood hub would entail: • Development of public infrastructure such as boat repair, fuel supply, roads, lighting, utilities, and security. • Investment in a range of processing activities to utilize fish landed. • Co-location of business services and input suppliers including co-packing, cold storage, packaging suppliers, staff catering, chemicals, sanitation services, technology and quality control laboratories, official certification, pre-shipment inspection, transport services, and freight forwarding agents. The goal is to reduce costs and promote innovation through proximity. The feasibility study proposed charging a variety of tariffs and fees to businesses to cover the project’s investments and operating costs. The proposal was not fully implemented, although some investment was undertaken. A new comprehensive plan for revamping the Korangi Fisheries Harbor into a modern-day fishing port, again applying the cluster concept, was developed by the Korangi Fisheries Harbor Authority in June 2017 (KFA 2017). The first phase would require an estimated investment of US$5 million. The plan includes the transfer of harbor ownership to the Sindh Govern- ment, to ensure that it will receive the required support (e.g. public infrastructure investment). Various institutional issues, however, remain to be solved, including the role of the Fishermen’s Cooperative Society, sources of income for manage- ment, user fees, and whether the harbor would have auctions. however, the Pakistani fisheries sector has not yet TRTA II. Formation of a benchmarking “club” would pro- made the investments needed to fully develop the vide additional impetus. skillset of its workers. As a result, too many fisheries workers lack the skills and education that drive increas- 4.5.7. A Stronger Private Sector es in standards and productivity. Facilities for training in commercial operations in value chain productivity and Pakistan’s fisheries sector currently lacks the de- quality are limited. Institutions that exist focus mainly mand-led approach required to drive growth. on fishing skills. The Fisheries Research and Training In- Industry competitiveness should be driven by market stitute in Lahore runs training programs on fish farm- forces: buyers, suppliers, potential market entrants, po- ing techniques and fish farm management. Diplomas tential product substitutes, and rivalry among existing for fishers are offered through the Punjab Department industry competitors. At present, the fisheries industry of Fisheries. UNIDO, under the TRTA II project, and the is not itself the driving force within the fisheries val- Government of Balochistan have agreed there is a need ue chain. Public-sector organizations need to move to extend the scope of the fisheries training institute in from being “doers” with a central role in the industry, Gwadar. to facilitators helping modernize a demand-led food system. To move to a competitive, demand-led sector, the needs of the market should be paramount, and 4.5.6. Competitiveness Benchmarking consumer preferences will need to take a greater role A clear set of productivity indicators and bench- (Table 13). marking could encourage competitiveness. These would let firms compare their operations to those of best-practice operators. Previous farm, industry, and 4.6. Sanitary and Health vessel competitiveness programs have not focused Barriers to Trade in the Fishery on achieving the lower costs of production needed to Sector compete with imports or alternative protein sources. There is a need for credible business plans that en- Poor sanitary and aquatic animal health (AAH) able forecasting of the price point of production and conditions hurt Pakistan’s ability to trade freely in the margins required for success. To drive competitive fishery and aquaculture products. SPS measures rely production, the National Productivity Organization, the on an outdated legacy of institutional and legal struc- Federal body responsible for national productivity un- tures. Exported products suffer rejections and market der the Ministry of Industries and Production, should access restrictions, or trade at a discount due to the risk continue the sector improvement work it initiated in of non-compliance. This provides openings for compet- Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 4. Critical challenges and needs in the fisheries sector 60 Table 13: Changes that Could Help Improve Market Access and Competitiveness Enhancer Fisheries’ future state •• Higher education and training •• Formal industry training program ➡ •• Field-based training programs •• Youth training programs •• Goods market efficiency •• Industry-driven market orientated to customers ➡ •• Incentives to foreign trade •• Growth activities and innovation grants •• Labor market efficiency •• Flexibility of labor so that workers are employed where they are most effective ➡ •• Labor incentives •• Reduced youth unemployment •• Equality between men and women •• Financial market development •• Sophisticated financial market ➡ •• Capital for investment in private sector •• Appropriate financial regulation and fair practice •• Technological readiness •• Improved ICT usage ➡ •• Enhanced fishing technology (but not overcapacity) •• Increased adoption of new technology •• Access to markets Source: Compiled by authors. ➡ •• Export earnings •• Opportunities for growth itors to obtain the value added lost by Pakistani opera- weeks), and inadequate landing infrastructure. All of these tors. Unless shortcomings are fixed, Pakistan could lose conditions reduce fish quality and value-add. While ice is access to the EU market again (Box 10). generally available (there are numerous ice plants located within reach of major landing sites), local ice storage and There is a need to strengthen official SPS control crushing conditions need improvement. Until these infra- systems. Regulation of sanitary conditions on im- structure challenges are resolved, most Pakistani exporters ports and exports is scattered across multiple federal will continue focusing on lower-value markets, with little ministries. Most fishery exports, in fact, are not subject incentive to make investments to reach higher-value ones. to any sanitary controls. At the same time, the health conditions of live fish imports get few effective checks. The process of devolution following the Eigh- Improvements are needed around food safety, cover- teenth Amendment of the constitution disrupted ing animal feed inputs and monitoring and controls of steps towards unification of federal food safety veterinary medicine, environmental contaminants, and control under a proposed National Food Safety, harvest and processing. Establishing an adequate AAH Animal and Plant Health Regulatory Authority. regime will be required to assure investors that their The authority was intended to ensure a clear division of production will not be undermined by outbreaks of fish functions between Provincial and Federal Governments disease and will have access to markets which have their and to unify Federal food safety functions under a single AAH controls in force. Several importing countries are risk management body. The EU-funded TRTA II project considering requiring suppliers of aquaculture products supported this approach, but due to the constitutional to certify consignments as free of specific diseases. That devolution, enabling legislation was not adopted. Con- would mean Pakistan would need not just testing ca- sequently, there remains a need to improve coordina- pacity, but full AAH surveillance and monitoring ability. tion between Provincial and Federal bodies engaged in official control of safety of fish products. At present, 4.6.1. Challenges in Food Safety Federal controls on international trade do not extend to the full value chain, and Provincial controls overlap. The food supply chain faces food-safety challenges due to deficiencies in infrastructure and processing. In addition to stronger control systems, there is a These include insufficient washing of equipment, use need to ensure compliance by fishery business oper- of wooden fish boxes instead of plastic, use of unchlori- ators. A good example is set by a small number of export nated water for washing and ice production, excessively companies, mostly based at Karachi harbor, which have long voyages in some of the larger vessels (three to four implemented HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 4. Critical challenges and needs in the fisheries sector 61 Box 10: EU Sanctions over Poor Sanitation Conditions In 2007, an inspection mission by the Food and Veterinary Office of the EU’s Directorate-General for Health and Consumer Protection identified deficiencies in Pakistani efforts to meet EU’s sanitary conditions. The Government of Pakistan was not able to address the main issues raised, and so suspended exports in 2008. The EU-supported TRTA II project provided techni- cal assistance and training to the MFD to solve these problems. FAO supported this effort by sending a mission on sanitation on fishing vessels. The Government of Sindh funded the upgrading of vessels, specifically fiberglass lining for fishing vessels and installation of onboard ice plants. In 2015, the EU directorate-general approved a system in which a limited number of Pakistani vessels were permitted to supply four export operators via landings at a dedicated auction hall at Karachi Harbor (known as the “EU channel”). Exports to the EU resumed. However, the authorization covers only the one landing site and excludes tuna products due to lack of accredited testing for histamine. Furthermore, Pakistan cannot export aquaculture products to the EU due to lack of compli- ance with residue monitoring requirements.1 The system resulted in exports of fish, shrimp, and cuttlefish in 2016 totaling 1,234 tons worth €4.5 million. Since then, out of the 45 EU food safety alerts concerning products imported from Pakistan, two have been for fish products (in 2015, chilled fish with an incorrect temperature, and in 2017, squid with an abnormal smell). Within the constraints of limited number of species and the single landing hall, the control system appears to function effectively. However, these limitations have meant Pakistan has not obtained significant benefits from renewal of access onsignment ofve been with reforms were ng, ions and safety. logies es. That conditions can improve when these defciions oto the EU market. Despite these improvements in conditions, problems remain. The control system at the MFD has lost key staff, and since January 2016 the MFD testing laboratory has faced suspension by the Pakistan National Accreditation Council (PNAC) of the lab’s ISO 17025 accreditation. The MFD has since submitted a preliminary questionnaire describing the control system, and is awaiting an inspection mission from the European Commission. Point, a food safety management system). Most of these effective AAH surveillance and control system, includ- companies control their own supply chains through con- ing quarantine arrangements for international trade, is tracts and purchase agents, work with vessels that take a pre-requisite for the development of a strong animal shorter trips, and operate their own distribution facilities. production industry. Aquaculture presents a set of additional hazards, To date Pakistan has not faced outbreaks of fish given that production may take place in polluted diseases impacting aquaculture production, but waters, and that various permitted and non-per- the risks in terms of lost production and market ac- mitted substances may be applied to cultured fish cess are clear from past experience. In April 2016, the as prophylactic or therapeutic measures. There is Saudi Arabia Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) reported a need for routine monitoring of chemical hazards, in- it had identified white spot disease in shrimp exported cluding veterinary medicines, in freshwater fish and from Pakistan. The product in question was wild-caught, aquaculture products. In some regions where aqua- not aquaculture-produced, and the viral nature of the culture is practiced, groundwater is contaminated with problem was disputed. Nonetheless, SFDA enacted an arsenic. The hazard is well recognized in drinking water across-the-board ban on the import of fresh, chilled, and rice cultivation, but not in fish from aquaculture. or frozen shrimp consignments from Pakistan until the There is also a need for a control regime of veterinary country could prove the health status of its products. substances (including permitted and non-permitted lists for aquaculture) and residue monitoring. Pakistan does not have a designated authority re- sponsible for fish disease surveillance or control. 4.6.2. Challenges in Aquatic Animal The Animal Quarantine Department (AQD), within the Health (AAH) Ministry of National Food Security and Research,20 has a mandate that technically includes fish. But the depart- All aquaculture industries must manage the risk ment does not have an AAH specialist, quarantine facil- of fish diseases, which can undermine production ities for fish, or capacity to test for pathogens. Aquacul- and discourage investment. The establishment of an ture disease control is generally assumed to be within 20 The Animal Quarantine Department operates under the Pakistan Animal Quarantine (Import and Export of Animals and Animal Products) Ordinance (1979) and Rules, 1980. The department’s functions are to prevent the introduction and spread of diseases through inspection and quarantine, to provide certification services, and to register processors of export-oriented animal products. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 4. Critical challenges and needs in the fisheries sector 62 the mandate of the Provincial governments. Yet there from aquaculture development globally: (1) de- is no Federal or Provincial legislation that specifies no- mand substitution, (2) demand from aquaculture tifiable aquaculture diseases, reporting requirements, or for wild-caught fishmeal, (3) market interactions provides authority to restrict transmission. Nor are struc- in the supply chain, and (4) spatial interactions in tured disease surveillance programs in place. Although coastal areas. These are discussed in turn below. In it has a nominated contact point in the quarantine de- addition, a range of environmental spillovers between partment, Pakistan does not participate in the regional subsectors requires management, including invasive AAH network and has never made a fish disease notifi- species and disease potential, the use of wild seed to cation. supply aquaculture, and impacts on inland fisheries from aquaculture water discharge and modification of While Pakistan imports live fish, including juvenile natural wetlands and river systems. tilapia, shrimp, and ornamental fish, it establishes no limits based on disease status or origin. Controls, Demand substitution for aquaculture products such as they exist at all, are simply visual health checks can reduce pressure on capture fisheries. Global applied on live fish at the points of import and export. demand for fish products continues to grow, and now There are no quarantine facilities for live fish or capacity stands at more than 160 million tons. In 2014, aquacul- to test for pathogens. ture’s contribution towards this demand exceeded 50 percent for the first time, while capture fisheries sup- The lack of a Federal authority to develop and ply remained relatively static (FAO 2016a). Aquaculture implement an AAH policy is a key problem to be is thus playing a vital role in providing fish that would solved. This could be addressed by a National Food otherwise come from capture fisheries, moderating Safety and Animal and Plant Health Regulatory Author- pressure on wild stocks. These trends are projected to ity, which would include AAH responsibilities. Once continue. Supply from aquaculture helps keep fish pric- this body is in place, animal health legislation could be es down, contributing to increased fish consumption in revised and modernized to provide a national frame- households both rich and poor (Toufique and Belton work for health of all animal species including aquatic 2014 and HLPE 2014). In Pakistan, aquaculture has the animals. A food safety monitoring system would guar- potential to expand consumption even while it allevi- antee the safety of aquaculture products by guarding ates pressure on wild stocks. However, the precise size against environmental contaminants, especially arsenic, of this effect depends on the extent to which a particu- and use of unauthorized therapeutic substances. There lar fish product and its aquaculture substitute primarily is a need too to invest in key expertise in the animal serve domestic or export markets. More exports mean health control system through recruitment and train- less local substitution. ing of qualified veterinary staff. The National Veterinary Laboratory should also address the status of diagnostic However, wild-caught fish are an input to aqua- capacity in relation to fish diseases. culture in the form of fishmeal, meaning that growth in aquaculture could heighten pressure on some marine resources. Because fishmeal is cur- 4.7. Managing Trade-Offs rently being produced from juvenile fish, this activity reduces later adult stocks that could be harvested for between Capture and Culture higher-value purposes (see Box 5). At present, most Fisheries fishmeal produced in Pakistan is either used for chicken At a global level, and often at a national level as feed or exported. For that reason, the magnitude of the well, capture fisheries and aquaculture are inextri- link between the subsectors—and the direct effect of cably linked. Policies directed at one fisheries subsector aquaculture on Pakistan’s marine fisheries—is not clear. can have serious environmental and socio-economic Nevertheless, there is at least the potential that addi- consequences on the other. Awareness of these links can tional demand for fishmeal from a growing aquaculture help policy makers choose and sequence policies that sector could further undermine the health of capture prevent harmful flow-on effects, and reinforce comple- stocks. Policy actions are required to alleviate this risk. mentary positive outcomes across subsectors. There are Management of marine stocks must be improved to challenges to be avoided and opportunities to be sought. prevent overfishing to supply new fishmeal demand. This would require a careful sequencing of fishery sector Four particularly important links should be consid- reforms: stock management should be improved before ered in the Pakistani context, drawing on lessons demand for aquaculture feed increases greatly. It may Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 4. Critical challenges and needs in the fisheries sector 63 also be possible to lessen this trade-off by regulating between food security and desire for higher ex- the post-harvest production of fishmeal. port revenue. If a larger aquaculture sector improves Pakistan’s fish-processing capabilities, both aquaculture Alternative sources of aquaculture feed could also and fisheries products will be increasingly processed. help reduce this tradeoff. Many aquaculture species, This will decrease the supply of whole fish and thus the both marine and freshwater, can consume at least some affordability and subsistence supply to local consum- plant-based content as part of their diet. Major cultured ers. Similarly, the growth in pathways to export markets species, such as carp and tilapia, are herbivorous. Glob- may increasingly price out local domestic consumption, ally, the proportion of fishmeal in farmed fish diets is even while delivering net benefits to Pakistan in terms falling across a range of species, as new soy-based and of value addition. Given the current low per capita con- other vegetable-based feeds (see Box 1) are becoming sumption of fish in Pakistan, and the potential benefits increasingly cost-effective and appropriate for a range of from increasing value added, these concerns are mod- species (Waite et al. 2014). Market-development activi- erate, rather than severe. However, governments must ties would be needed to ensure that these modern, low- consider these trade-offs as they chose goals and the er-impact approaches are adopted to their full potential policy pathways towards these goals. in Pakistan. The type of aquaculture industry developed, along with the availability of feed substitutes, will influ- ence the strength of the capture-culture linkage. 4.8. Climate Change Impacts From an economic standpoint, aquaculture and on the Fishing Sector capture fisheries complement each other in im- Pakistan faces major climate-related risks, includ- portant ways. Both subsectors draw on common ing glacial melt, variable monsoons, recurrent components of the supply chain, such as post-harvest floods, sea water intrusion, higher average tem- processing, retailing, and exporting. Economies of scale peratures, sea level rise, and greater frequency and learning spillovers mean that growth of aquacul- of droughts. In 2010, floods affected more than 18 ture can improve the value-added opportunities of million people in Pakistan and caused an estimated the capture fishery. Larger volumes allow post-harvest US$10 billion in damage. Abnormally heavy rainfall in processors to reduce costs, and incentivize investment the 2011 monsoon affected 9.7 million people in Sindh in capacity that can raise the quality potential for both and Balochistan. Sea level rise and saline intrusion are subsectors. There is also room for common governance threatening infrastructure and agricultural land in the in areas such as improved food-safety regulations, data Indus Delta. Temperature rises in Pakistan from climate collection, and management. Reforms that address one change are projected to exceed global averages, with sector can thus benefit the other. water scarcity to become more severe (USAID 2017). These challenges threaten both modern economic sec- Environmental tradeoffs must be managed tors and traditional livelihoods, including fishing. through a planned approach to aquaculture devel- opment. Coastal environment settings exemplify this. Fisheries and aquaculture in Pakistan face specific In many countries, extensive aquaculture development impacts from climate change. Increased intrusion of has occurred in important mangrove forests, which saline water in the Indus Delta is already harming fish protect coastlines and provide habitat for wild fish breeding grounds. Higher temperatures are reducing stock breeding. Approximately one third of the world’s river flows, further damaging habitat quality in the del- mangrove area has been damaged due to human activ- ta. Projected sea level rise and increased cyclonic ac- ity. The most common human cause of mangrove loss tivity due to higher sea surface temperatures threaten globally is aquaculture, responsible for approximately mangrove areas, which are crucial to wild shrimp breed- 11 percent of the loss between 1996 and 2010 (Thom- ing, one of Pakistan’s largest export fisheries. The combi- as et al. 2017). Careful zoning that protects mangroves nation of climate change—particularly greater variation and other sensitive habitats is necessary to ensure that in weather conditions—and pressures on fishing stocks Pakistan does not lose these habitats and the important is increasing the vulnerability of rural communities de- economic and environmental benefits they provide, in- pendent on this resource (Box 11). cluding support for marine fisheries. Changes in ocean temperature and acidity due Fisheries development also requires management to climate change are predicted to alter the dis- of socioeconomic trade-offs, such as the tension tribution and abundance of marine fish. The eco- Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 4. Critical challenges and needs in the fisheries sector 64 Box 11: Vulnerability of Rural Fishing Communities to Climate Change While many rural communities in Pakistan are vulnerable to climate change and climate-related disasters, fishing commu- nities, particularly those in the lower Indus Basin, are especially vulnerable. This was confirmed by a recent study of 62 rural communities across four agro-ecological zones of Sindh (Ghauss et al. 2015). Part of this vulnerability arises because climate stresses on fisheries are compounded by stresses from unsustainable fishing practices, both commercial and traditional. Reduced fish harvests, combined with more erratic agricultural yields, force households to undertake adaptation strategies such as migration. However, options are limited, especially in remote areas. Education levels in fishing communities are among the lowest in Sindh, reducing economic alternatives. The burden of ad- aptation is particularly high for women, who face traditional and educational barriers to employment and a higher burden of work at home following the temporary migration of men. logical responses of fish species to climate change can be observed in the diversity, quality, and quantity of 4.9. Gender Inequality within catches. The tropical zones of the world’s oceans, which the Fishing Sector includes Pakistan’s ocean territory, are expected to ex- Women are important actors in fisheries and aqua- perience relatively high rates of extinction, decreases culture, particularly in small-scale operations. In in catch, and decreases in the size of fish. Fisheries that the pre-harvest stages, women repair fishing gear and are already under pressure from overfishing, as Paki- prepare aquaculture ponds, and to a lesser extent, take stan’s marine stocks are, already have compromised part in the fishing itself. Women’s role in fisheries and resilience and are thus particularly at risk from climate aquaculture is often greatest in the post-harvest stag- change. es, such as in cleaning, processing, and distributing the catch. Women can suffer under many of the broader Pakistan’s National Climate Change Policy (2012) challenges that the fisheries sector faces. For example, attempts to provide a path forward to address pollution from canals flowing into Manchar Lake (see these challenges through adaptation measures, Box 8) reduced fishing by women, harming their eco- but broader implementation is needed. The goal of nomic participation and social status (Ghaus et al. 2015). the policy regarding fisheries is to “maintain marine eco- systems and fish habitats for a healthy fisheries sector.” Despite their contributions, women in fisheries The policy proposes increasing the resilience of fisheries and aquaculture face income inequality, workplace through actions that maintain or improve the health of segregation, and health risks. In Pakistan, women are fisheries-related ecosystems. These include regenerating employed in fisheries and aquaculture at some of the mangroves, ensuring water flow for healthy rivers, reduc- lowest pay levels (lower than in the manufacturing in- ing water pollution, and promoting aquaculture (Ministry dustry) with a large gender wage gap: women earned of Climate Change 2012). However, resource constraints about one third of what men earned in skilled fishery have hampered implementation of many programs. work in 2014-15 (CPDI 2017). In addition, women un- There is a need to finance and implement the transforma- dertaking fishing and aquaculture activities sometimes tion of the governments’ climate change commitments meet gender-related resistance, because access to fish- into tangible adaptation outcomes. ing sites (i.e. tenure access rights), fishing quotas, and licenses are often traditionally reserved for men (World While this section has focused on the consequenc- Bank 2018 and FAO 2017). In fish processing and retail, es of climate change on fisheries and fishing com- women face poor working conditions (more so than munities, the relationship goes both ways—on a men, who are less involved in these activities), leading global level fisheries can have implications for the to fatigue, stress, and occupational injuries (FAO 2017). climate. Under good conditions, aquaculture and cap- Official statistics on women’s contribution to local econ- ture fisheries can produce protein that has a smaller car- omies and family nutrition are quite limited, making it bon footprint and a much lower terrestrial impact than difficult to formulate gender-inclusive policies and in- other food systems (Nijdam et al. 2012). Increased reli- terventions (FAO 2017 and World Bank 2017). ance on fisheries (relative to farms producing red meat, for instance), particularly plant-fed aquaculture, offers a More broadly, gender inequalities pervade Paki- pathway towards lower-carbon food production. How- stani society, but the government has shown will- ever, local environmental impacts must be carefully ingness to take corrective actions. Across the country, managed. patriarchal traditions, male migration, purdah, honor and Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 4. Critical challenges and needs in the fisheries sector 65 Box 12: Women and the FAO Small-Scale Fisheries Guidelines The SSF Guidelines encourage a human rights-based approach to policy making. They are a means of addressing the root causes of poverty including discrimination, unjust distributions of power, marginalization, exploitation, and abuse, particu- larly of women and other vulnerable actors. FAO develops products to aid in the implementation of the guideline, including a Gender Handbook (FAO 2017) and companion baseline diagnosis/assessment tools. In the Pakistani context, the guide- lines suggest key actions such as: • Understand gender and the role of women in Pakistani fisheries and Aquaculture: Conduct a participatory diagnosis. It is important to grasp the baseline status of the situation including who are the actors, what are the specific vulnerabilities, and what are the institutional capacities moving forward. • Strengthen the availability of reliable and time-sensitive gender-disaggregated data. Collect and publish official data that accurately depict the status of women. This may require modernizing data systems, strengthening analytical skills, and building strong collaborative relationships with communities based on trust and transparency. • Mainstream gender across environmental, social, and economic policies. Policies and strategic planning should take into consideration the role of women not only as beneficiaries but as key contributors to the overall sustainable development goals of the country. • Promote and support Community Driven Development (CDD). Community institutions, with the overall support of gov- ernment administrations, should inculcate gender-responsive resource management and advocate for equitable access rights to resources and opportunities. • Address gaps in employment quality and opportunities. Governments can work with employers to address unequal and unfair working terms and conditions, such as inequalities in pay and access to benefits such as health care and maternity leave. • Prioritize secure access to nutrition. Conduct awareness-raising and behavioral change interventions to increase house- holds’ knowledge of nutritional needs and locally available nutrient-rich foods such as farmed small fish. preference given to men limit women’s access to basic tribution to fisheries and aquaculture. Having services and opportunities. To combat gender-based committed to implementation of the FAO’s Volun- inequalities, governments have created institutions and tary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale programs to promote women’s access to economic op- Fisheries in the Context of Food Security and Poverty portunities, for example, the Benazir Income Support Eradication (SSF Guidelines), Pakistan is encouraged Program in Sindh. The Ministry of Human Rights, the main to act to increase women’s visibility and participation authority in charge of women’s affairs and gender equal- across the value chain (FAO 2015b). Developed in a ity, provides support to women through bodies such as participatory manner, the SSF Guidelines (Box 12) the National Commission on the Status of Women. embody a global consensus on principles and guid- ance for small-scale fisheries governance and devel- There are policy frameworks and solutions that opment applicable to all fisheries activities across the could enhance women’s opportunities and con- value chain. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 4. Critical challenges and needs in the fisheries sector Chapter 5 Summary and recommendations Boat near Charna Island, off the coast of Sindh (M khurram Khan, Shutterstock) 67 To increase the social and economic benefits derived from fisheries, there is a need to implement mea- sures to both make Pakistan’s fishery more sustainable and to ‘add value’. As detailed in the previous chapter, this requires conservation of marine resources to ensure that high-value, high-quality fish are available to produce high-value fish products such as table fish, and that stocks are not depleted by harvesting for low-value fishmeal. This goal further requires investments in aquaculture, as well as better facilities at fish markets, better fish processing, and better access to international markets. Although fish production has increased slightly in recent years, Pakistan is failing to realize the potential offered by its capture and farmed fishery sectors. The marine capture fishery, for instance, has suffered a de- crease in productivity and per-unit value due to overfishing (Fanning et al. 2016). Aquaculture could be far larger than today’s level of development. Pakistan considerably lags its neighbors in aquaculture despite suitable conditions; growth in this sub-sector is relatively slow even in the face of continued strong global demand. This final section outlines key policy recommendations that could help Pakistan overcome these challeng- es and enjoy fisheries-driven growth. These recommendations cover the fisheries sector broadly: from capture fisheries and aquaculture across the marine, coastal, and inland environments, to upstream and downstream value chains, research, and training. The timeframe for these recommendations is the next ten years, broadly aligned with the next two five-year planning periods of 2019-23 and 2024-28. The recommendations recognize the role of the Federal government in establishing the basic framework for sector management, as well as the role of Provincial and Territorial governments in managing fishery activities in their jurisdictions. 5.1. Structure and Approach Recommendations build upon the opportunities identified in the previous chapters. There are six policy areas, mirroring the key themes presented throughout the report: 1. Enabling environment—conditions and activities that support a well-functioning fisheries sector, including good governance, innovation, and capacity-building 2. Marine capture fisheries—fishing activities in the marine exclusive economic zone (EEZ), as well as in the coastal and estuarine waters of Sindh and Balochistan Provinces 3. Inland capture fisheries—fishing activities in the Indus Valley as well as the Himalayan foothills, including natu- ral and stocked fisheries 4. Aquaculture—marine, coastal, and inland aquaculture across Pakistan, varying from subsistence-level extensive farming to vertically-integrated intensive systems 5. Value chain performance—activities that increase the sector’s contribution to economic growth through en- hanced productivity, value-addition, branding, and market access 6. Optimizing benefits—activities that increase the sector’s contribution to national development goals such as food security, social inclusion, and gender equality. Three policy areas focus on fisheries subsectors, while another three, focused on the enabling environment, value chains, and optimizing benefits, are cross-cutting themes that apply to each subsector (Figure 12). Each policy area has a Specific Development Objective (SDO). Each SDO has Results Areas that are addressed by spe- cific activities. The SDOs and corresponding Results Areas are summarized in Table 14 and described in more detail below. The specific activities corresponding to each Result Area are further summarized in Annex 2. 5.1.1. Overall Objective and Main Components The objective of this chapter is to provide a set of recommendations that, if enacted, would enable fisheries and aquaculture to contribute to inclusive and environmentally sustainable economic growth. Specifically, Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 68 Figure 12: Policy areas addressed by the recommendations Overall Objective: To enable fisheries and aquaculture to contribute to inclusive and environmentally sustainable economic growth for Pakistan Marine Capture Inland Capture Sustainable Fisheries Fisheries Aquaculture Evidence-based Evidence-based Spatial Planning and Management Management Management Monitoring and Equitable Aquatic Animal Enforcement Arangements Health Marine Ecosystem Freshwater Ecosystem Extension and Health Health Training Speci c Development Objectives • Reformed Governance • Improved Labor Force Skills Cross-cutting Policy Areas Enabling Environment • Provision of Finance • SPS Measures and Enforcement • Value Addition • Improved Productivity Value Chain Performance • Quality Assurance • Market Access Development • Nutrition and Food Security • Community Empowerment Optimizing Bene ts • Gender Inclusiveness • Diversi ed Livelihoods Subsector Speci c Policy Areas Source: Compiled by authors. the recommendations aim to create a revitalization process that results in healthy ecosystems being fished by a well-structured and profitable capture sector. Over time, capture fish production will be supplemented with marine and inland farming which is well-planned and respondent to existing and emerging threats. The revitalized sector will be supported by capable management institutions, focused on sustainable development, and enabled by an innovative and skilled private sector. 5.1.2. Consistency with Wider Policy Objectives and International Commitments This set of policy recommendations sits within the wider development agenda set out in the Government of Pakistan’s Vision 2025 (Planning Commission 2014). It will develop human and social capital (Vision 2025 Pillar 1) and contribute to maternal and child health and nutrition. It will support inclusive growth (Pillar 2). It will contribute to water and food security (Pillar 3) through actions to reduce food insecurity and improve efficiency of water use. It will contribute to private sector-led growth (Pillar 4) by enabling greater value-added seafood production. It will contribute to the Pakistani knowledge economy (Pillar 5) through actions to create innovation and value-added, and will increase regional connectivity and economic benefits (Pillar 6) through actions to increase value and volume of seafood exports. The recommendations will also help Pakistan achieve its objectives under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).21 Goals addressed include alleviate poverty (SDG1), tackle hunger (SDG2), promote good health (SDG3), support gender equity (SDG5), provide decent work and economic growth (SDG8), enable responsible con- sumption and production (SDG12), support adaptation to climate change (SDG13), and revitalize and restore life below water (SDG14). 21 The SDGs are a set of universal goals aimed at ending extreme poverty, fighting inequality and injustice, and fixing climate change (United Nations 2016). Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 69 Table 14: Summary of Specific Development Objectives (SDOs) and Results Areas Policy Area Specific Development Objectives (SDOs) and Results Areas 1. Enabling environment SDO 1: Enact policies and programs that deliver structural funding, innovation, capacity building, and other changes to attract investment, support trade, and improve the management of fisheries resources. Results Areas: 1.1 Reformed governance for greater oversight and coordination 1.2 Provision of finance for structural investments 1.3 Higher capacity of education institutions to improve labor force skills 1.4 Improved SPS measures and enforcement to protect consumers and align with international standards to facilitate trade 2. Marine capture fisheries SDO 2: Ensure that marine fishing activities are environmentally sustainable and managed in a way that will achieve equitable economic and social benefits. Result Areas: 2.1 Effective management of sustainable marine fisheries 2.2 A well-regulated and compliant fishing sector 2.3 A healthy and productive marine ecosystem 2.4 Evidence-based fisheries management enabled through good science and information 3. Inland capture fisheries SDO 3: Ensure that inland fishing activities are environmentally sustainable and managed in a way that will achieve equitable economic and social benefits Result Areas: 3.1 Effective and equitable management of sustainable inland fisheries 3.2 Effective freshwater ecosystem management 4. Aquaculture SDO 4: Ensure that aquaculture is managed in a way that will enable Pakistan to satisfy local demand, grow exports, provide an alternative to wild capture, and contribute to early childhood nutrition and the empowerment of women Result Areas: 4.1Effective planning and management of aquaculture 4.2 Effective aquatic animal health planning and management 4.3 Expanded and improved aquaculture extension and training 4.4 Expanded and improved aquaculture research and development aligned with industry needs and government objectives 5. Value chain performance SDO 5: Ensure the contribution of the fisheries sector to economic development through enhanced productivity, value-addition, branding, and market access Results Areas: 5.1 Investment in infrastructure and services that adds value and enhances quality 5.2 Improved productivity, quality, and market access 6. Optimizing benefits SDO 6: Optimize the economic and social benefits generated by more productive and sustainable fisheries Results Areas: 6.1 Improved nutrition and food security for all 6.2 Greater attention to gender issues and progress towards gender equality 6.3 Community empowerment and improved livelihood opportunities The recommendations are also consistent with the objectives articulated in the National Policy and Strate- gy for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development. Developed in 2007, this document focused on national econom- ic growth, poverty alleviation, and food security. It was not formally adopted at the time due to political transition, but it remains relevant and forms the basis for several recommendations. The recommendations are also consistent with Pakistan’s international obligations. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 70 Karachi coast (Dmitry Pichugin, Shutterstock) 5.2. Recommendations: Enabling Environment The lack of a coherent, holistic strategy for the development of fisheries and aquaculture is a fundamental constraint to the sector’s sustainable development, and manifests itself in many ways, including inade- quate harvest controls and limited guidance of the development of aquaculture. The transition to a more sustainable fisheries sector requires fulfilling a range of conditions, most obviously governance and policies that integrate environmental and economic considerations. The future enabling environment will be informed by existing governance structures but will also require new legislation, rules, strengthened institutions, and potentially entirely new institutions. Translating new opportunities into productive sectors will require investment in research and devel- opment and technical capacity and creation of the right environment to attract outside investment. Many of the sector-specific recommendations that follow will only be effective once the overarching en- abling environment is in place. For that reason, steps to create the enabling environment must begin as a matter of priority. This set of recommendations aims to achieve SDO 1: Policies and programs that deliver structural funding, innovation, capacity building, and other changes that attract investment and improve the management of fisheries resources. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 71 Result Area 1.1: Reformed governance of the sector for greater oversight and coordination Current governance arrangements are fragmented and contain significant gaps. The transfer of different ele- ments of fisheries governance to both the Ministry of National Food Security and the Ministry of Ports and Shipping has resulted in a fragmented governance system. The consequent lack of unified national policy development means that Provincial and Territorial fisheries departments have received limited guidance over issues that are of common interest nationally. The MFD, which is the main technical body at the Federal level for planning and overseeing marine fisheries development, suffers from limited operational budget and staff capacity, as well as a mandate now at odds with the relatively new emphasis on Provincial- and Territorial-led fisheries management under the 18th Amendment to the Constitution. A more cohesive set of institutions and better-defined roles for those institutions across gover- nance levels would improve management outcomes. Greater involvement of Provincial and Territorial Governments in planning fisheries and aquaculture would be beneficial, and requires Federal coordination. This would be helped by development of a national policy and strategy that provides a coherent framework. Within this framework, Provincial and Territorial Governments could ad- dress in a coordinated way issues such as fleet capacity reduction, harvest control rules, aquaculture spatial planning, and value chain improvements, through their own locally-appropriate policies. The new national policy could build on the 2007 National Policy and Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development in Pakistan. Activities proposed: 1.1.1 Develop a national, unified policy for fisheries and aquaculture inclusive of Provincial and Territorial government roles in implementation (Federal Government to coordinate). Short-term This is necessary to ensure that the capture fishery and aquaculture activities at the subnational level are consistent priority22 with national strategic priorities. Such a policy framework should address national-level priorities, issues straddling different levels of government, and roles and responsibilities of Federal and Provincial and Territorial agencies. The 2007 National Policy and Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development in Pakistan provides a good basis for this, and could be adopted following updates. 1.1.2 Assess institutional capacity and options for institutional strengthening (Federal Government to coordinate). Medium-term National policy must be supported by a Federal-level coordinating agency. There is a need to assess the current Priority capacity and future governance requirements of the fishery sector and agree on options for institutional reforms. This should include the option of a single Federal agency to coordinate the development of the fishery sector in conjunction with Provincial and Territorial Governments. 1.1.3 Achieve jurisdictional clarity in light of the autonomy law, and strengthen legislation at both Federal and Provincial and Territorial levels (Federal, and Provincial and Territorial Governments). Medium-term The existing legal framework needs a critical review with a goal of updating existing instruments, where these are priority either outdated or inconsistent with the national policy framework to be adopted (Activity 1.1.1). 1.1.4 Prioritize the needs of small-scale fishers and fish farmers (Provincial and Territorial Governments to lead with Federal Government support) Long-term To address issues relating to social protection and gender equality within fishing communities, and to understand Priority the implications of policy reforms for small-scale fishers, a baseline assessment of small-scale fishers’ needs would be useful. This would follow the FAO’s SSF Guidelines, including the human rights based approach for SSF (see Box 12). Findings should guide management choices. Updating the National Food Security Policy to better reflect the needs of small-scale fishers is also recommended. Anticipated outcomes of these activities include:22 •• An overarching national policy framework, agreed to by key stakeholders, that can provide the basis for establish- ment of detailed Provincial and Territorial policies, strategies, and action plans that are consistent across borders but tailored to fit local context •• The implementation of a robust framework of laws and regulations to guide the sustainable development of fish- eries and aquaculture across Pakistan 22 Short-term = 0-2 years; medium-term = 2-4 years; long-term = > 4 years Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 72 Result Area 1.2: Greater finance for structural investments Few sources of finance currently exist for the private fisheries sector in Pakistan, whether for large com- mercial or microenterprises. Investments will be required for new production, structural adjustment, infrastructure, and value-added activities. Existing financing mechanisms provided through commercial credit facilities and the FDB are good but insufficient tools for catalyzing these investments. New financial support is required, along with systems to efficiently and transparently deliver it to investors. Fisheries Development Funds (FDFs), at both the Federal and Provincial and Territorial levels, could fi- nance fisheries and aquaculture development. Investment priorities would be chosen to maximize public and private finance in strategic sector areas. These could include (1) grants to fund public goods such as training and capacity building, (2) funds to support public and private investments in infrastructure and systems to manage that infrastructure, and (3) funding guarantee facilities to support private sector investments and deepen their relation- ships with commercial banks (Table 15). Rather than relying solely on central planning of sector investments, this mix of grants, loans, and guarantees could help crowd in private-sector investment and innovation. Investments under this system would be market-driven, while the grants component would help ensure that social goals are promoted. Table 15: A Summary of Proposed Fisheries Development Fund Investments and Activities Investments Public goods Public private partnerships Private Funding structures Grants and matching grants Mix of public and private funding Guarantee facilities Types of activities Capacity-building for fishers and communities, Physical infrastructure, assets, Support for commercial bank with an emphasis on small-scale fishers and operations at key landing financing of value chain Small-scale infrastructure for vulnerable and market access points actors (fishers and producers, communities Comprehensive fisheries processors, cold-chain actors, and Technical training information exporters) Such a program of public-private finance would require an institutional framework that could ensure in- tegrity and transparency at all levels. A mix of public and private stakeholders could oversee the funds’ invest- ments, with a technical team in charge of daily operations. An example is provided by Bloomberg Philanthropies, which has partnered with Encourage Capital and the Rockefeller Foundation to launch the Vibrant Oceans Initiative, a US$53 million, five-year effort to boost fish stocks in Brazil, the Philippines, and Chile. Activities proposed: 1.2.1 Study the design and feasibility of Fisheries Development Funds (Federal, and Provincial and Territorial Governments). Short-term There is a need to assess the options available for such mechanisms. The assessment should include legal measures, priority institutional framework, staffing, and operational procedures required to manage disbursement, monitor investments, and ensure transparency. The funds would be overseen by governance authorities with broad-based representation from public and private sectors. 1.2.2 Plan an operational program, including procedures, eligibility, accountability, and monitoring and evaluation (Federal, and Provincial and Territorial Governments, based on activity and geographic jurisdiction). Short-term The program will need a strategy to determine the type and size of investments that the funds will support. Such a priority strategy should include procedural rules, transparency requirements, and monitoring and evaluation. Legislative amendments may be necessary. These will be updated over time. 1.2.3 Establish FDFs (Federal, and Provincial and Territorial Governments, based on activity and geographic jurisdiction). Short-term FDFs will need dedicated governance and staffing. Set-up will require drafting of operating procedures and priority procurement of such systems as IT platforms. 1.2.4 Implement FDFs, first as pilots with limited geographical area or investment scope, followed by full roll-out (Federal, and Provincial and Territorial Governments, based on activity and geographic jurisdiction). Medium-term Pilot implementation will allow testing of systems and training of staff and key stakeholders. Once the systems have priority been assessed as robust, and initial results appear promising, full scale roll-out can begin. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 73 Anticipated outcomes of these activities include: •• Federal, and Provincial and Territorial institutions that deliver targeted finance to support the investment needed to sustainably grow the sector and support enabling reforms •• Socially beneficial investment based on public anchor finance with private sector co-financing •• Support for fishers and their communities to allay disruptions they may suffer from fisheries management reforms. Associated investments may take the form of retraining, provision of investment capital, and business support services. Result Area 1.3: Build the capacity of education institutions to improve labor force skills Federal and Provincial and Territorial Governments have made investments in education and training for fish- eries in recent years, but additional work is required. Sindh has training centers at Chilya and Sukkarin. In Punjab, there is the Fisheries Research and Training Centre at Manawan. In Balochistan, the Marine Fisheries Centre in Gwadar was constructed but not commissioned. These centers could function as core institutions to provide the human resources required to revitalize fisheries and aquaculture. But they will need investment to upgrade and expand their activities. There is a need to establish clear connections between the content and level of training offered and the strategic needs of the sector. This implies a stronger (but not exclusive) focus on aquaculture, value-added pro- cessing, and quality control. This may require restructuring and upgrading at the three main educational institutions to ensure they deliver relevant, private sector-linked training. The teaching material could be enhanced by forging new partnerships with foreign institutes and strengthening local institutions’ delivery of extension services. Activities proposed: 1.3.1 Assess the current capacity of, and development needs for, fisheries technical training (Federal Government to coordinate). Medium-term Conducting a comprehensive capacity needs assessment (CNA) for capture fisheries and aquaculture would greatly priority enhance understanding of current capacity needs and constraints. Training programs at the key training centers should then be reviewed to determine what gaps exist, relative to the CNA-identified needs, and assess the feasibility of technology-enabled extension services. 1.3.2 Plan and make investments in fisheries training institutions, with a focus on aquaculture (Provincial and Territorial Governments to lead with Federal Government support). Long-term Primarily this work will focus on upgrades to existing educational facilities, including provision of practical learning- priority based facilities (for example, demonstration aquaculture ponds, laboratories, and feed mills). This would likely require investment in new technical staff. The establishment of a more formal curricula and qualifications, benchmarked against international best practice, would assure the quality of the revised education system. Anticipated outcomes of the identified activities include: •• The establishment, in each jurisdiction with fisheries and aquaculture potential, of a leading training institute, following curricula with strong links to the private sector, to train an appropriate number of skilled workers Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 74 Result Area 1.4: Improved SPS measures and enforcement to protect consumers and align with international standards to facilitate trade Federal SPS controls on fishery products are divided between ministries. Currently, export controls are limited to shipments to the EU, with poor compliance records for shipments to other destinations. The ability of some larger firms to meet stringent standards demonstrates that the sector can achieve the standards required by higher-value markets. However, investments and reforms are required if more companies are to follow suit. Provincial and Territorial Governments have limited capacity to manage SPS controls, and there is no in- tegration with food safety functions. The Government of Punjab has established its own Punjab Food Authority to manage food safety issues within its jurisdiction, but there are overlaps with Federal functions. This highlights the need to establish a clear division of labour across levels of government for food safety responsibilities and to establish rules of engagement for issues that require joint action. Detailed SPS recommendations were developed between 2011 and 2016 by the EU’s TRTA II project, includ- ing a recommendation to establish a National Food Safety, Plant and Animal Health Regulatory Authority. However, despite the substantial agreement of most stakeholders, the reforms were not adopted by the Federal Gov- ernment. Some Provincial and Territorial Government actions in this area have partially filled the vacuum. However, these activities are not well-coordinated, and proceeded without recognition of Pakistan’s international obligations. Activities proposed: 1.4.1 Support the development and reform of Provincial and Territorial SPS policies for fisheries products (Provincial and Territorial Governments to lead with Federal Government support). Short-term Poor SPS conditions are common across the supply chain, from fishing vessels to processing plants. Reversing this priority trend will require new protocols, inspection guidelines, checklists, and compliance enforcement. 1.4.2 Strengthen SPS controls and inspection capacity in fish production and distribution (Provincial and Territorial Governments to lead with Federal Government support). Short-term Improving sanitary controls in the value chain will require building the capacity of staff to implement, inspect, and enforce. priority Training could include study tours as well as university-based courses and higher education degrees in food safety. 1.4.3 Strengthen the capacity of laboratories providing food safety testing to the fishery sector (Federal Government to lead with Provincial and Territorial Government support). Short-term Critical to meeting SPS requirements in external markets is having accredited, high-quality laboratories. Accreditation priority (ISO 17025) of the Marine Fisheries Department’s testing laboratory was suspended by the Pakistan National Accreditation Council in January 2016. There is a need to invest in equipment and staff to raise capacity and regain accreditation. 1.4.4 Establish a risk-based SPS border control system for exports and imports of fish products for human consumption (Federal Government to lead with Provincial and Territorial Government support) (see also Results Area 4.2 on related measures regarding fish disease control). Medium-term Border controls must ensure that food safety hazards are stopped, while allowing for an efficient cross-border trade of priority healthy products. This will require an assessment of the food safety and fish disease hazards related to trade in fish for human consumption, and investment in hazard detection and control capacity. 1.4.5 Establish national data collection for SPS (Federal Government leads with Provincial and Territorial Government support). Long-term Data collection is vital to making real-time decisions on emerging risks, as well as long-term planning. An SPS data priority system should be installed with agreed on, standardized data inputs from Provincial and Territorial Governments, to be collected and published (where appropriate) by a centralized Federal agency. Anticipated outcomes of these activities include: •• Effective risk-based SPS measures on fish products for human consumption, in line with OIE and Codex Alimenta- rius standards •• Effective risk-based controls at border inspection posts, adequately equipped with quarantine and testing facilities to protect against the import and export of non-compliant products •• Scientifically-accredited testing services for food safety Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 75 5.3. Recommendations: Marine Capture Fisheries Marine capture fisheries remain the mainstay of fisheries production and export in Pakistan. However, the re- cent stock assessment under FRAPP showed that marine fish stocks are heavily depleted and continue to be over-fished, especially by the Sindh-based bottom-trawler fleet that supports a fishmeal industry based on juvenile fish by-catch. This set of recommendations aims to deliver SDO 1: Ensure that marine fishing activities are environmen- tally sustainable and managed in a way that will achieve equitable economic and social benefits. Result Area 2.1: Effective management of sustainable marine fisheries The FRAPP concluded that a long-term reduction in fishing capacity is required to prevent declines in the yield and productivity of Pakistan’s marine fisheries, in almost all species groups. A long-term reduction of fishing effort by about 50 percent would have the highest expected benefits in terms of yield, approximating the maximum sustainable yield, MSY. This would also bring large efficiency gains by reducing uneconomic expenditure. However, more modest re- ductions in effort would achieve positive (albeit smaller) gains in long-term yield and efficiency. Pakistan therefore needs a fleet capacity reduction program that would (1) limit growth in vessel numbers and effort via licensing, with associated enforcement, (2) phase out certain vessel types, and (3) introduce spatial and temporal restrictions of fishing activity. Numerous policy options exist to achieve the required reduction in fishing and manage the renewal of capacity. Policy makers will need to consider the scope for indirect management (e.g. by excluding the use of un- der-size fish for fishmeal production) versus direct capacity management (e.g. vessel withdrawals). Fishery business operators whose operations or previous investments are harmed by regulation changes may require compensation. The extent of that compensation may be based on equity, past compliance with regulation, and the need to maintain investor confidence in the regulatory framework going forward. Potentially, compensation for the effects of new marine regulation could be linked to opportunities to have shares or involvement in emerging fish farm operations. Pakistan would benefit from implementation of Fisheries Management Plans (FMPs), detailed frameworks that align fishing effort and specific regulations with economic objectives and scientific guidance on health of the stock. The plans should aim to reduce effort in the most flexible and least onerous ways possible (Box 13). They should be drafted with the input of commercial and small-scale fishers, and implemented for key commercial species groups. Plans should include harvest strategies that detail technical measures to increase the selectivity and reduce the ecological impact of these fisheries. The plans need frameworks for stock rebuilding as well (FAO 2003). Box 13: Main Components of a Fisheries Management Plan (FMP) FMPs govern many fisheries worldwide. Based on the precautionary principle, they typically include the following elements: • An overview of the fishery--participants, location, landings, and international considerations • Stock status—biology, environment, habitat, species interactions, stock assessment, and prospects • Management objectives—desired outcomes, and reference points (targets and limits) for key measurable indicators such as spawning stock biomass, spatial distribution, age structure, recruitment, and by-catch levels • Decision rules—a series of rules based upon the management objectives and the pre-established reference points. These allow fisheries managers to announce what action should be taken on reaching a certain indicator level. For example, when the number of boats in the fishery reaches “a,” no further licenses will be issued for a period of “b” months, or when the spawning stock biomass reaches the limit “c,” the fishery will be closed for “d” months. • Current management measures—measures that are established for the short term and reviewed periodically. These could in- clude fishing seasons, closed areas, quota allocations, licensing restrictions, gear restrictions, and by-catch reduction methods. • Enforcement strategies—the monitoring of fisheries activities by sea, land, and air, with enforcement of technical man- agement measures, complemented by awareness building and education • Species recovery plans for depleted stocks—temporary capacity limits or enhanced restrictions on gear, fishing areas, or season length, implemented according to specific decision rules, and revised according to stock status over time. The plan should have specific recovery targets. Where scientific information is lacking or uncertain, the recovery plan should be precautionary in its outlook. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 76 More broadly, there is an opportunity to align future development of the fisheries sector with the ecosys- tem approach to fisheries (EAF).23 EAF aims to manage fisheries with respect to impacts on all species, including non-commercial ones, in contrast to traditional single-species management, which may ignore interaction effects between different species of fish. This requires managing by-catch and pollution. It widens the definition of users of marine ecosystems to include both extractive and non-extractive users, and aims to improve their participation in decision-making. Activities proposed: 2.1.1 Impose a temporary freeze on the entry of new vessels into the fishery (Federal and Provincial Governments). Short-term As an urgent measure, Governments should impose a temporary freeze on the entry of any new vessels into the priority marine capture fishery until implementation of the more robust access control measures outlined in Activities 2.1.3 and 2.1.4. This would require enforcement of existing licensing systems. 2.1.2 Impose restrictions on fishing access to the most depleted fish stocks, and in conjunction implement alternative livelihood measures (Federal and Provincial Governments). Short-term As a further urgent measure, Governments should impose temporary restrictions on fishing of the most depleted fish priority stocks, including certain demersal fish and shrimps. These steps could include temporal and spatial limits, and bar use of the most harmful types of fishing gear. Where these restrictions place a high burden on resource-constrained communities, Governments should provide alternative livelihood opportunities and other forms of assistance. 2.1.3 Agree to ecosystem-based principles and objectives for marine fisheries (Federal and Provincial Governments). Medium-term The ecosystem approach to fisheries includes principles such as (1) fisheries must be conducted in a manner that does priority not lead to over-fishing, (2) harvesting and processing capacity should be commensurate with estimated resource levels, (3) fishing operations should minimize their impact on the structure, function, and biological diversity of the system, and (4) the precautionary principle should be the basis for management decisions. Much of this approach is embedded in the 2007 National Policy and Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development in Pakistan, which is recommended for adoption under Activity 1.1.1. 2.1.4 Develop an NPOA for fishing capacity (Federal Government to lead with Provincial government input to implement). Medium-term Beyond the prevention of further growth in the capacity of the marine capture fishing fleet (Activities 2.1.1. and 2.1.2), priority there is a need to systematically reduce the current overcapacity. This will require a comprehensive survey of the fishing fleet and its contribution to the mortality of key stocks, and a determination of the acceptable level of mortality (see also Activities 2.1.3 and 2.1.5). Implementation of options for reducing capacity must include monitoring to assess efficacy. These options will also need to include restrictions on the near open-access nature of the marine fisheries, to prevent new entrants from off- setting the steps taken to reduce fishing. 2.1.5 Develop FMPs for key commercial species (Federal Government to lead with Provincial government input to implement). Medium-term Revision of the current near open-access system of fishing should occur through the development of FMPs for priority key commercial stocks (Box 13). FMPs should operate over a period of three-to-five years with a shorter cycle for management implementation and review at the operational level. Given that many of these stocks are already critically depleted, plans should also incorporate a recovery or rebuilding process where required. Anticipated outcomes of these activities include: •• A strategy for fleet-capacity reduction that includes a range of management measures, including enforced licens- ing and spatial and temporal restrictions based on stocks’ habitats and seasonal vulnerabilities. These measures should result in fishing capacity and effort that are commensurate with the reproductive capacity of available stocks. •• Harvest strategies, in the form of FMPs, for key commercial stocks, based on scientific advice and the ecosystem approach to fisheries management •• Sustained increase in the productivity of marine fish stocks over the long term (30 years). 23 The ecosystem approach to fisheries (EAF) was formally included as a supplement to the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries (CCRF) in 2003 (FAO 2003). Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 77 Result Area 2.2: A well-regulated and compliant fishing sector The updated national framework (Activity 1.1.1) for fisheries management needs to mesh with the reg- ulatory framework. This would ensure that harvest strategy elements such as minimum landing sizes and gear restrictions are harmonized across jurisdictions, ideally through the proposed FMPs (Activity 2.1.5). In addition, Prov- inces and local governments may want to develop additional fisheries-specific bylaws in response to local issues. As a starting point, a holistic review of regulations would determine what changes are needed to comply with the updated national framework. Enforcement of existing MSC regulations should be made a priority, supplemented with new regulations where required. MCS in fisheries is a multi-jurisdictional affair in Pakistan. The role of the Pakistan Maritime Secu- rity Authority is well established in Federal waters (those beyond 12 nautical miles). However, the authority has less capacity and mandate to operate in shallow, coastal waters. In Balochistan, the provincial fisheries department has taken over this role. There is a case for developing Sindh Province’s own capability to systematically police the Indus Delta creek network, utilizing local intelligence and fast, shallow-draft patrol vessels to respond to infringements. In waters beyond three nautical miles, a coordinated response between the Province and security authority is more real- istic. This could be agreed to in a National Plan of Action (NPOA) for illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing that confirms institutional responsibilities and sets out principles for combating these practices. Once this NPOA is established, the Provinces will be able to develop their own MCS strategies within the nationally agreed framework. Activities proposed: 2.2.1 Develop a National Plan of Action to prevent and deter illegal fishing (Federal Government to coordinate). Short-term There is a need to develop a NPOA for IUU fishing that confirms the jurisdictional framework and agrees on basic priority principles, following consultation with neighboring countries, Provincial Governments, the fishing industry, the maritime defense forces, and other stakeholders. 2.2.2 Update fisheries legislation and rules to reflect the new national fisheries policy (Federal and Provincial Governments). Medium-term There is a need to undertake an independent review of fisheries legislation across multiple levels of government priority to identify inadequacies. This should be guided by the revised national policy framework (Activity 1.1.1.), which needs to be reflected in laws and regulations. Subsequent updates to fisheries legislation should be made through a consultative approach. 2.2.3 Mandate the use of satellite-based Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS) on all commercial vessels greater than 15 meters (Federal and Provincial Governments). Medium-term Currently, tracking and monitoring of fishing activities is inadequate, where it exists at all. Pakistan needs a reliable, priority real-time tracking system for fishing vessels. Initially, this equipment should be required for the largest vessels in the fleet (greater than 15 meters) but eventually should become standard on a broader range of commercial vessels. A VMS system will also improve maritime safety. 2.2.4 Develop MCS enabling actions (Federal and Provincial Governments). Medium-term Once the national plan of action on illegal fishing is established (Activity 2.2.1), Federal and Provincial agencies priority should work together to implement control processes, including VMS, fisheries monitoring centers, joint deployment plans (between Provinces, and between Provinces and the Pakistan Maritime Security Authority), standard operating procedures, and cross-warranting between different organizations. This will require considerable training and capacity- building. The asset base (e.g. patrol vessels for offshore and inshore surveillance) will also need improvement. Anticipated outcomes of these activities include: •• A nationally integrated and enforceable regulatory framework across Federal and Provincial levels, leading to comprehensive fisheries control and enforcement capabilities, backed by effective sanctions for non-compliant fishers Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 78 Result Area 2.3: A healthy and productive marine ecosystem Pakistan is already introducing new management measures to nurture healthier ecosystems but could do much more. Progress includes the recent designation of Astola Island as a Marine Protected Area (MPA), and the requirement that tuna gillnetters adhere to the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) conservation measure for billfish and sharks. Many of the ecosystem management efforts to date have been introduced by international NGOs. The World Wildlife Fund has been working with the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission on catch reporting, while the International Union for the Conservation of Nature has promoted marine protected areas and the use of Turtle Excluder Devices.24 But ecosystems remain under-protected in many respects. The Sindh-based bottom trawl fleet, for example, continues the wide-scale removal of juvenile fish for the export-based fishmeal industry. Regulations are in place concerning minimum landing sizes for certain species, but enforcement is limited. The ecosystem approach to fisheries (introduced in Results Area 2.1) is a modern, precautionary approach to natural resource management and has the potential to improve the sustainability of Pakistan’s fisheries. This approach requires increased focus on ecosystem management, by reducing the trophic impact of fishing certain species or size groups, reducing by-catch of juvenile, high-value or endangered species, and managing the habitat impacts of fishing gear. It is voluntary, and has been widely adopted in principle by the international community. The internationally agreed-on guidelines help governments formulate national policies and the supporting legal and institutional frameworks for sustainable fisheries. Activities proposed under this Results Area will underpin the fisheries-management measures in Results Area 2.1. The recently implemented season restrictions on shrimp fishing have received growing support, creating an opportunity to build upon them by introducing additional targeted spatial and temporal protection of critical habitats and productive spawning, nursing, and feeding areas. Activities proposed: 2.3.1 Identify and map critical coastal and marine habitats (Federal Government to coordinate). Medium-term Research is needed to identify and map critical fisheries-related habitats (e.g. spawning, nursing, and feeding zones) priority and to understand their structure, function, and seasonal variations. The findings of this mapping activity should be embedded into a marine ecosystem monitoring and management information system. This activity may be suited to foreign funding and technical assistance. 2.3.2 Develop a NPOA to protect sharks and rays, sea turtles, and other vulnerable species (Federal Government to lead with Provincial Government input). Medium-term Recent surveys have found an absence of large species of sharks and rays, and very few smaller species of sharks priority and rays. There is a need to develop a NPOA for species that are iconic or critical to effective ecosystem function. Stakeholders would have to agree on implementation processes and responsibilities between levels of government. 2.3.3 Develop a holistic Marine Protected Area (MPA) and No Take Zone (NTZ) network (Federal and Provincial Governments). Long-term Based on results of Activity 2.3.1, specific habitats and locations should be designated for protection, either as MPAs priority (which have specific ecological conservation objectives), no take zones (NTZs), or other forms of fishery management areas. This would require broad consultation with stakeholders, with the objective of building a connected network of MPAs and NTZs over time that protects key ecosystem elements. There will be a need to develop appropriate regulation of activities within zones, such as allowing certain types of fishing and other low-impact activities. 2.3.4 Develop a national ocean policy framework to address wider impacts on marine habitats and resources in an integrated way (Federal Government to coordinate). Long-term Planning and management for multiple ocean uses requires the full range of uses, users and values to be considered. priority Given this, the development of an overarching framework to improve governance of the nation’s marine space would be beneficial. This aims to guide integrated, ecosystem-based planning, and define strategies for achieving the goals and objectives defined in the process. The policy must both reflect existing national priorities (see Activity 1.1.1.) and international requirements. In the long run, the policy would lead to institutional changes. 24 TEDs have been mandatory since 1999 but are not always used. In May 2017, the U.S. Government suspended Pakistan’s export of wild-caught shrimp to the United States due to failure to use TEDs (see section 4.5.2). Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 79 Anticipated outcomes of these activities include: •• Spatial data on spawning, nursery, and other critical habitats •• National plans of action, including concrete implementation processes, to protect endangered or keystone species such as sharks, sea turtles, and seabirds •• Protection of critical areas of habitat through spatial and temporal controls and the effective management of marine activities •• An overarching national ocean policy framework that identifies national priorities and strategies for the future development of Pakistan’s maritime space Result Area 2.4: Evidence-based decision-making enabled through good science and information Although Pakistan has substantial research capabilities, considerable gaps in research and data remain. Marine fisheries research is undertaken by the Marine Fisheries Department, which works specifically on fisheries management, and the National Institute of Oceanography, which works on marine biology, oceanography, and ge- ology. A capture fisheries research plan is recommended to ensure that there is a strategic, cross-Provincial approach to common researchable constraints, and that industry gets a greater say in identifying researchable issues. This plan must be needs-driven, with stakeholder participation. A specific area for priority research is stock assessment. To move towards more adaptive management, where targets are set and used as management action triggers, there is a need for on-going monitoring of stock status and condition. This is a pre-requisite for the effective implementation of FMPs (see Result Area 2.1). Purchase or extensive chartering of a deep-water research vessel should not be necessary. Rather, local researchers could develop biological indicators of stock heath through sampling, supported by periodic short-term support from international specialists. Costs could be shared with neighboring countries interested in their own stocks. Research is also needed to identify critical fisheries-related habitats, such as spawning, nursing, and feeding ar- eas, for the ecosystems management described in Results Area 2.3. Research plans that fill well-defined knowledge gaps would assist in attracting research funding, including from international sources. Key areas for this research would include coastal habitat mapping and ecosystems that entail interactions between major commercial species. Activities proposed: 2.4.1 Improve stock assessment capability (Federal Government to lead with Provincial Government input). Medium-term Insufficient data exist for on-going monitoring of stock status. There is a need to develop stock assessment priority capability to inform the operation of the Fisheries Management Plans (FMPs) (Activity 2.1.5), especially for stocks that are undergoing rebuilding. These FMPs should be aligned with international fisheries management bodies and neighboring countries where required. 2.4.2 Develop marine fisheries and ecosystem research capabilities (Federal Government to coordinate). Long-term A prioritized, time-bound research plan addressing the main work areas, key research providers, and accompanied by priority sufficient budget, is necessary. This should reflect the needs of industry stakeholders (both industrial and small-scale) and reflect the broader requirements for collaboration with neighboring fishing nations. Anticipated outcomes of these activities include: •• A regular system of monitoring and assessment of fish stocks to facilitate adaptive management •• A well-funded, integrated research plan, across relevant Federal and Provincial agencies, that responds to the needs of marine ecosystem managers and resource users •• Fishery management decisions that are made based on high-quality scientific information Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 80 5.4. Recommendations: Inland Capture Fisheries Inland fisheries are poorly monitored and managed, resulting in uneconomic and unsustainable exploita- tion. Inland fisheries face threats from water diversion (largely for irrigation) and poor water quality (due to reduced flows, siltation, bacterial contamination, and oil and heavy metal pollution). Reform requires management measures that improve environmental and economic outcomes including by supporting traditional livelihoods. This set of recommendations aims to deliver SDO 2: To ensure that inland fishing activities are environmen- tally sustainable and managed in a way that will achieve equitable economic and social benefits. Result Area 3.1: Effective and equitable management of sustainable inland fisheries The management systems currently used in many inland fisheries do not adequately incentivize long-term sustainable use of resources, and may also be contributing to social inequities. Most inland waters, especially in the lowland areas of Pakistan, are either privately owned, or publicly owned but leased to fishing groups. Many of the waters are inadequately policed or self-policed.25 The system of short-term leases does not encourage adequate investment (including restocking) by rights-holders that could increase yields. In addition, the purchase of leases requires access to substantial capital, excluding many traditional fishers and leading to inequitable, illegal sub-con- tracting. Specific policy development for inland fisheries requires more information than is currently available, and should be based on a consultative approach. This may be achieved through facilitated advocacy, an approach to policy development that enables diverse stakeholders to engage with each other in ways that empower vulnerable and marginalized communities. In addition to improving equity, sustainability, and productivity, policy changes are necessary to improve data collection, while maintaining or improving revenue collection for governments. The results of a review and consultation process should then be used by Provinces and Territories to choose between policy options for specific circumstances. Activities proposed: 3.1.1 Develop policy options for improved inland fisheries management through a consultative process (Federal, and Provincial and Territorial Governments). Short-term The right to fish in inland waters in Pakistan is auctioned and thus restricted to people with significant capital. There priority is a need to establish a more balanced and equitable system of allocating fishing rights, through leasing, licensing, and other types of waterbody management. A good initial step would be a broad consultation with inland fisheries stakeholders including traditional fishers, governments, and NGOs, to determine the current challenges and reform options. 2.2.2 Update fisheries legislation and rules to reflect the new national fisheries policy (Federal, and Provincial and Territorial Governments). Medium-term There is a need for an independent review of fisheries legislation across levels of government to identify inadequacies. priority This should be guided by the revised national policy framework (Activity 1.1.1.), which needs to be reflected in laws and regulations. Subsequent updates to fisheries legislation should be made through a consultative approach. This activity would be the equivalent of the same review process for marine fisheries outlined in Activity 2.3.2. Anticipated outcomes of these activities include: •• An updated legal framework for inland fisheries that reflects a move to waterbody-level planning, as well as more equitable co-management systems, developed in consultation with communities •• Effective incentives to promote higher productivity in inland fisheries, including pro-active management mea- sures and private investments 25 For example, in Punjab, the Forestry Wildlife and Fisheries Department have “fisheries watchers” to monitor fish catches. However, they are rarely present when fish is landed and often rely on reporting from fishing contractors who have reason to under-report landings to keep the lease value low. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 81 Result Area 3.2: Effective management of freshwater ecosystems Pakistan’s freshwater aquatic ecosystems produce goods and services of direct benefit to fisheries, but are subject to a range of threats, including water diversion, pollution, and exotic species, all of which can harm fisheries productivity. Likewise, fishing activity itself impacts ecosystem health. Pakistan needs research and policy action that safeguards ecosystems to maintain fisheries productivity and long-term sustainability. Currently, systematic collection of inland fisheries data is limited, hindering ecosystems-based manage- ment. More comprehensive data collection would inform management decisions regarding catch limits and water management. More broadly, this knowledge could build understanding of the trade-offs and synergies between sectors (for example, between agriculture water use and fish production). It could also support adaptive co-manage- ment between communities and Provincial and Territorial Governments. Activities proposed: 3.2.1 Map critical inland fisheries habitats (Federal Government to lead with Provincial and Territorial Government support). Medium-term New research is needed to identify and map critical fisheries-related habitats (e.g. spawning, nursing, and feeding zones) priority and to understand their structure, function, and seasonal variations. The results of this mapping should be embedded into an ecosystem monitoring and management information system. This activity may be suited to foreign funding and technical assistance and is the equivalent of the research process for marine fisheries outlined in Activity 2.2.2. 3.2.2 Systematically collect inland fisheries data, and use them to inform management (Provincial and Territory Governments to lead with Federal Government support). Medium-term There is no systematic collection of inland fisheries data in Pakistan. There is a need to mandate the reporting of all priority landings, and for government agencies to increase inspections to ensure compliance. As more data become available, they can inform adaptive management (Activity 3.2.3). 3.2.3 Develop decision support tools for freshwater ecosystems management (Federal, and Provincial and Territorial Governments). Long-term There is needed to develop decision support tools that integrate ecosystem and waterways information into inland priority fishery decision-making. These should embody the precautionary principle and adaptive management. Such decision- support tools should inform decisions on catch limits as well as broader issues of fresh water management (such as irrigation levels) that may have implications for fisheries. Anticipated outcomes of these activities include: •• A spatial data-management system that holds up-to-date data on critical freshwater ecosystems •• Decision support tools to facilitate freshwater ecosystem management •• A coordinated system of research and data collection that supports inland fisheries Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 82 Inland fishing, Sindh (Thomas Koch, Shutterstock) 5.5. Recommendations: Aquaculture Aquaculture is expanding in scope and productive capacity. To organize, monitor, and manage development of the sector, governments require well-defined policies, an overarching strategy, and an accessible, coherent set of laws supporting policy implementation. There is also a need for a formal system of zoning and licensing for fish farms to manage potential social and environmental trade-offs. Mechanisms for managing biosecurity risks from imported aquaculture inputs are also crucial. More broadly, government actions to promote aquaculture should aim to provide an enabling environ- ment for private investment in the sector. Many of the proposed risk-reduction actions could help build a positive investment climate. However, systems such as licensing and quarantine controls must avoid stifling private sector investment, by ensuring transparent and rapid processing. This set of recommendations aims to deliver SDO 4: Ensure that aquaculture is managed in a way that will enable Pakistan to satisfy local demand, grow exports, provide an alternative to wild capture, and contrib- ute to early childhood nutrition and the empowerment of women. Result Area 4.1: Effective planning and management of aquaculture Aquaculture faces risks concerning pollution to and from the environment (including farms polluting each other), floods and storms (particularly on coastal installations), food safety and public health risks, and biosecurity risks, among others. The following recommendations aim to manage these risks, giving industry the certainty required to invest and innovate. Most of these recommendations relate to commercial aquaculture devel- opment and the risks these operations face, including restrictions on export markets. Governments may also wish to take actions that encourage homestead aquaculture (microenterprises), which could improve food security, poverty alleviation, and women’s empowerment (see also Sections 3.5 and 5.6). Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 83 An important component of risk management in aquaculture is spatial planning, which can reduce envi- ronmental and social trade-offs, and increase efficient use of supporting infrastructure. This planning entails determining where aquaculture development should occur and where it should not—for instance, in places where it could harm mangrove forests or water supplies. To complement this protection, the licensing of fish farms can enable monitoring and appropriate regulation, including abstraction and discharge consents, environmental impact assessments, and notifiable disease monitoring. Closely associated certification and quarantine management issues are covered in Results Area 4.2. 4.1.1 Develop and implement aquaculture spatial plans, including zoning, within the broader context of completing a strategic environmental assessment for the aquaculture subsector (Federal, and Provincial and Territorial Governments). Short-term A key constraint for the development of aquaculture is the lack of strategic planning, including strategic environmental priority assessment. There is a need to undertake a specialist review to create zoning options in a participatory manner, engaging key stakeholders such as farmers, business groups, technical experts, and environmental managers. After completing the review, Governments should undertake detailed aquaculture zoning including site selection and definition of management areas (for example, areas containing farms that share a common water supply). This zoning should utilize already-available database software to record industry data and manage zoning. This activity may be suited to foreign funding and technical assistance. 4.1.2 Develop and implement streamlined requirements for aquaculture site licensing (Provincial and Territorial Governments). Short-term An aquaculture license should be a pre-requisite for establishment of new fish farms. As such, there is a need to priority undertake an independent review of licensing options in a consultative manner. The resulting licensing system should be streamlined and business-friendly, and be linked with a spatial planning database (Activity 4.1.1). There should be a strong focus on minimizing costs to business. 4.1.3 Streamline the oversight and management of inter-Provincial/Territorial, and Federal-Provincial/Territorial affairs and international treaties (Federal, and Provincial and Territorial Governments). Medium-term To ensure that zoning and licensing systems operate effectively, with minimal cost to business, existing approval priority and administration processes should be streamlined, with a view to also clarifying roles and responsibilities across jurisdictions and levels of government. Anticipated outcomes of these activities include: •• A comprehensive, strategic spatial planning system that guides aquaculture investments and minimizes social conflicts and environmental externalities •• A robust aquaculture site licensing system, linked to the spatial planning system, that facilitates management •• An aquaculture sector that is globally competitive and compliant with international agreements and requirements Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 84 Result Area 4.2: Effective planning and management of aquatic animal health (AAH) Aquaculture entails biosecurity risk, which, if not managed, can undermine profitability and endanger the aquatic environment and human health. This results area proposes actions aimed at managing these risks, as well as participation in international agreements, such the Office International des Epizooties (OIE). Although imports already need certification by the Animal Quarantine Department (ADQ), many ports of entry (by air, sea, or land) lack facilities to quarantine consignments and have no capability to test for diseases. Controls are often simply a visual check of live fish at the point of import and export. As is typical during the early development of an aquaculture industry, Pakistan imports seed and broodstock from other countries. Improved certification and quarantine arrangements are required to prevent importation of disease. Improved controls would also reassure investors that their investments will not be ruined by outbreaks of disease. Shrimp disease, in particular, has the potential to wipe out a future shrimp aquaculture industry in Pakistan, and must be avoided. In many other countries, shrimp disease has driven harmful use of chemicals, switches in species cultured, and large-scale disinvestment. Given the current limitations in Pakistan’s animal health system—specifically, its minimal viral diagnostic capacity and lack of effective quarantine—the likelihood of a shrimp disease outbreak is very high. The management of biosecurity risks would be helped by the creation or strengthening of a focal institu- tion at the Federal level to drive implementation of an AAH policy. In conjunction with this institutional reform, AAH legislation at the Federal and Provincial levels may need revision to allow for specific programs and actions. Activities proposed: 4.2.1 Identify the components required for a unified certification and quarantine management system to regulate species introductions and disease management (Federal Government to coordinate). Short-term This would involve bringing together stakeholders to agree on responsibilities regarding species introductions and disease priority management. The process would establish a national framework for AAH, drawing also on international obligations and responsibilities (see Activity 4.2.2.). It is recommended that the Animal Quarantine Department be established and strengthened as the focal Federal institution for comprehensive AAH policy development and implementation. 4.2.2 Introduce certification and quarantine (Federal Government to lead with Provincial/Territorial support). Medium-term To ensure international competitiveness, Pakistan should adopt international standards and agreements (i.e. the WTO priority Agreement on the Application of SPS, and the OIE Aquatic Code). This will include the development of measures for diagnostics, risk analysis, health certification, quarantine, surveillance, disease reporting, contingency planning, and disease control. Once such measures have been designed, and the AAH framework (Activity 4.2.1) is in place, introduction of certification and quarantine management measures could follow. This will need to include designation of specific points of entry for aquatic animals into Pakistan, ensuring that each has diagnostic capacity and quarantine facilities. These measures will require training of inspection staff and capital investment (see Activity 4.2.3). 4.2.3 Develop supporting diagnostic and research capability (Federal Government to lead with Provincial/Territorial support). Medium-term There is a need to draw on regionally available capacity-building for AAH management and research. The AQD should priority develop links with the regional AAH network. This would enable Pakistan to work with specialists, donors, and grant providers to expand research capability. It is also recommended that the University of Punjab expand its diagnostic capacities and cascade its skills and techniques to other institutions throughout Pakistan. This should be undertaken in concert with a corresponding upgrade of AAH facilities at academic institutions and designated points of entry. The government should also build diagnostic capacity in AAH at its National Veterinary Laboratory. 4.2.4 Undertake a national fish disease survey and establish a routine monitoring system (Federal Government to lead with Provincial and Territorial Government support). Medium-term Monitoring diseases in the fisheries sector is key to establishing risk-based assessments and protocols. Governments priority should implement a national survey of fish diseases and a reporting protocol for notifiable diseases. The government should also ensure that required notification of international organizations occurs. Anticipated outcomes of these activities include: •• An aquaculture industry with appropriate AAH surveillance and control systems to minimize the risks of disease •• The requisite capacity, including facilities, to undertake aquatic animal disease diagnosis, research, and control •• Fulfillment of domestic disease management responsibilities and international AAH obligations Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 85 Result Area 4.3: Expanded and improved aquaculture extension and training An important role for governments in the promotion of aquaculture is the distribution of up-to-date public good knowledge through extension. Current aquaculture practices in Punjab and Sindh are dominated by carp cultured using traditional practices. Increased diversity and intensity of production will require new techniques and technologies. There are spill-over benefits to encouraging adoption of innovative and feasible ideas in the aquacul- ture community. Government can learn from early adopters who are prepared to take risks, and can help transfer that knowledge (where it is not proprietary) to others within the industry. Aquaculture extension in Pakistan primarily takes place at the Provincial and Territorial level. Aquaculture extension in Sindh is focused on two centers in Karachi and Chilya. In Punjab, there is the Fisheries Research and Train- ing Institute (FTRI) at Manawan. Recent innovations have included adding novel species such as tilapia to the training content, as well as new systems such as cage culture and hatchery management. FTRI recently sent “master trainers” to the Asian Institute of Technology in Thailand for training. There is an element of extension in the way that the Federal FDB operates joint ventures for the introduc- tion of new systems and species, but few formal mechanisms exist to share learning beyond immediate stakeholders. Sometimes new equipment used for trials, such as net cages or pens, are made available to fisheries departments for subsequent use. In general, greater dissemination of learning from FDB could more effectively pro- mote industry best practices and innovations. Universities currently play a small role in training and sharing their research; this too could be expanded. Activities proposed: 4.3.1 Engage in South-South knowledge exchange (Federal, and Provincial and Territorial Governments). Medium-term priority There is a need to develop more comprehensive aquaculture extension and training in Pakistan. It is recommended that Pakistan build on the “master trainers” approach being piloted in Punjab in consultation with the Asian Institute of Technology. This would help raise capacity by training trainers from across Pakistan in neighboring countries that have advanced aquaculture industries. Re-engaging with international and intergovernmental organizations to coordinate the sharing of learning would further support this development. 4.3.2 Share best practices, differentiated by aquaculture type (Federal, and Provincial and Territorial Governments). Long-term priority As Pakistan builds experience in aquaculture, it needs to ensure that records are maintained of good aquaculture practices (GAPs), developed with reference to internationally recognized standards. These could serve as a resource for future capacity development. The records should be differentiated by types of aquaculture, variously addressing the needs of commercial investors, aquaculture for poverty alleviation, and aquaculture for local nutritional improvement. To support dissemination of this information, a network of “one-stop Aqua Shops” could be developed, where knowledge sharing is combined with access to aquaculture inputs and equipment. Anticipated outcomes of these activities include: •• Vibrant extension services for sharing innovations in aquaculture across Pakistan and internationally Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 86 Result Area 4.4: Expanded and improved aquaculture research and development aligned with industry needs and government objectives While some aquaculture research is underway in Pakistan, it could be expanded considerably. On the Fed- eral level, the Fisheries Development Board is piloting cage culture, sea bass farming, and shrimp farming via joint ventures with private sector partners. The National Institute of Oceanography is collaborating in coastal marine aqua- culture research with a shrimp hatchery at Sonmai and grow-out ponds at Ghiro Bari. Other research actors include the Pakistan Agriculture Research Council (PARC) and the Fisheries Research and Training Institute (FTRI), which con- duct research on freshwater aquaculture, feeding, and toxicology. The University of Punjab, Lahore, is investigating sustainable aquaculture, conservation, and ecosystem restoration. The private sector is also active, with feed compa- nies experimenting with fish feeds, and entrepreneurs experimenting with new species and systems on their farms. A national research strategy would help build collaboration and coordination among these institutions, and better align their activities with industry needs and government objectives. The strategy should provide more resources, international links, and inter-institutional coordination, including between public and private entities. Activities proposed: 4.4.1 Improve aquaculture research (Federal Government to coordinate). Medium-term There is a need to build links between aquaculture research and development stakeholders. A research strategy could priority help integrate the efforts of different stakeholder groups, including between public and private actors, and provide financial support for applied, public good research. 4.4.2 Support research relevant to poverty alleviation and nutritional and micro-nutritional food security (Federal, and Provincial and Territorial Governments). Medium-term There is a need to support participatory research and development in aquaculture that is suited to people who have priority few resources, low risk tolerance, and limited capital for investment. Special attention should go to women farmers and people involved in the production of small indigenous fish with nutritional benefits. There is a need to support research (including field trials and associated extension activities) on aquaculture activities that specifically provide solutions for malnutrition and women’s empowerment. Development of methodologies for the systematic evaluation of micro aquaculture practices would also advance this goal. 4.4.3 The public and private sectors should co-create commercial aquaculture (Federal Government to coordinate). Medium-term There is an opportunity to develop new culture systems by building on the model emerging from the FDB (or to priority extend the FDB’s activities directly), in which public institutions undertake commercially-orientated research and development in partnership with the private sector. Anticipated outcomes of these activities include: •• Aquaculture research and development that improves extension materials and best-practice understanding, and adapts them to local conditions based on scientific trials and evidence •• Research and development that supports sector zoning and licensing, and promotes the industry’s growth in ways consistent with governments’ objectives •• The development of new types of commercial aquaculture in Pakistan through collaboration between public and private sectors Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 87 5.6. Recommendations: Value Chain Performance Strengthening value chains is key to ensuring Pakistan maximizes the value on each unit of fish produced. Whether from inland capture, marine capture, or aquaculture subsectors, the strength of the value chain determines the economic and thus social returns to fisheries. To date, value chain enhancement has been limited, and Pakistan’s fish products do not achieve their full market potential. Investment in infrastructure, labor force skills, firm productiv- ity, and market development can change this. This set of recommendations aims to achieve SDO 5: Ensure the contribution of the fisheries sector to eco- nomic development through enhanced productivity, value-addition, branding, and market access. Result Area 5.1: Investment in infrastructure and services that adds value and enhances quality Strategic infrastructure and services investments would support firms’ efforts to increase the value of their product, deliver quality to consumers, and compete internationally. These investments should focus on the common infrastructure and services that support a wide range of fishing enterprises along the value chain. Strategic placement can help build economies of scale, enhancing competitiveness and productivity. There is the potential to develop a “blue growth hub” at Korangi Harbor. Existing plans to create a seafood pro- cessing hub at Korangi have stalled and should be revived. This hub can serve as a “competitiveness cluster”, building a critical mass of fisheries firms that strengthens both upstream and downstream value chains. To be successful, the hub requires investment in basic infrastructure to encourage private-sector value-adding enterprises to invest and co-locate. Training and extension services could be based there. Over time, the co-location of businesses will drive productivity and efficiencies through the sharing of facilities and export services, and through peer-learning. Cost recovery may be possible through user fees. Similarly, investments in “fresh fish hubs” can improve the current poor state of facilities and SPS condi- tions found in fish markets, helping to bring buyers and sellers together in a way that improves value. Public investment in facilities that serve as common resources for fish buyers and sellers, such as auction halls, loading facilities, cold chain facilities, and sales areas, will strengthen competitiveness, improve quality and product value. Activities proposed: 5.1.1 Support the development of a competitive seafood cluster at Korangi Harbor (Sindh Government to lead with federal government support). Medium-term There is a need to review and update the existing development model for the harbor including infrastructure planning. priority This review should include representatives from both the Sindh Government and the private sector, and should explore options for investment in catalyzing infrastructure, and for cost recovery based on user fees. 5.1.2 Improve infrastructure, conditions and public services at fish markets (Provincial and Territorial Governments). Medium-term Conditions in fish markets require improvement. Upgrades to facilities such as auction halls, loading facilities, priority cold chain facilities, and sales areas, and improvements to supporting public services, will improve quality and opportunities for value addition. Anticipated outcomes of these activities include: •• A competitive business environment and supporting infrastructure that encourages value addition and produc- tivity-enhancing investments Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 88 Result Area 5.2: Improved productivity, quality, and market access Improvements in productivity, in terms of both quality and quantity, would lead to greater value addition and international competitiveness. Poor productivity occurs due to limitations in knowledge and skills. Produc- tivity could be improved by more effectively sharing knowledge throughout the sector, benchmarking, investing in training that utilizes the benefits of the competitiveness seafood cluster (see activity 5.1.1) and instituting codes of practice (COPs). Simultaneously, new markets should be developed through outreach, promotion and analysis to increase demand for Pakistan’s improved fish products. Greater use of COPs can also increase productivity. For example, UNIDO successfully introduced COPs for small fishing vessels as part of the TRTA II Project in Balochistan. Training and extension services should use and expand these COPs to further upskill stakeholders in productivity enhancement. Productivity indicators and benchmarking can encourage innovation, learning from others, and thus greater competitiveness. Benchmarking would help drive improvements by allowing firms to compare their oper- ations to those of best-practice operators. This could be organized and operated by industry associations. Activities proposed: 5.2.1 Invest in market development activities (Federal Government to coordinate). Short-term priority There is a need for in-depth market and competitor analysis to identify new market opportunities internationally. This should include funding for development of branding strategies, promotional plans, participation at trade exhibitions, and network-building with potential buyers. 5.2.2 Develop quality standards for selected products (Federal Government to coordinate). Medium-term There is a need to develop a grading scheme for product quality, to assess both products and producers. This should be priority based on stakeholder consultation and draw on international standards. 5.2.3 Develop a model factory for productivity and value-add training, and promote Codes of Practice (Sindh Government to lead with federal government support). Medium-term There is a need to designate a model factory or productivity center that can be used as a best practice site for research priority and training, including on safety procedures. Ideally, this would be located near or within the Korangi Blue Growth Hub (see Activity 5.1.1). 5.2.4 Undertake benchmarking to establish firm-level productivity indicators (Federal, and Provincial and Territorial Governments). Medium-term There is a need to establish productivity metrics, based on skills, processes, and equipment, to benchmark firms and priority encourage measurable improvements. Anticipated outcomes of these activities include: •• Access to new international markets for higher quality products •• Productivity indicators and benchmarking to ensure value-chain businesses are ready to compete internationally •• Creation of added-value products supported by attainment of accepted, industry-wide safety and quality stan- dards 5.7. Recommendations: Optimizing Benefits Pakistan’s substantial fishery resources offer significant potential for development. With the right reforms and strategic public investment to unlock private-sector potential, fisheries could become an engine for growth, generating many times their current value and providing new and better jobs. Pakistan’s fisheries could also contribute to important social goals: nutrition and food security, better livelihoods for small-holders, and increased opportunities for women. This set of recommendations aims to achieve SDO 6: Optimize the economic and social benefits generated by more productive and sustainable fisheries. This will require greater visibility and accounting for food security and nutrition, community empowerment, and gender equality in capture fisheries and aquaculture. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 89 Result Area 6.1: Improved nutrition and food security for all Fish consumption can support Pakistan’s efforts to combat food insecurity and malnutrition. At present, about 20 percent of the population is considered undernourished. Childhood stunting rates exceed 40 percent, plac- ing Pakistan among the top countries in the world for this condition (World Bank 2015). Increased fish consumption among the poor could help alleviate the problem: Fish is a good source of proteins, healthy fats, and essential nutri- ents such as long-chain Omega-3 fatty acids, iodine, vitamin D, and calcium. Small, micronutrient-rich fish (suitable for polyculture in homestead ponds) are particularly beneficial. Fish consumption in the country is currently very low, about 2 kg per year per capita, compared to a global average of 17 kg. However, there are cultural preferences that must be considered, as well as income constraints for people who are not directly involved in capture or aquaculture activities. Greater fish production can increase fish con- sumption directly if smallholders who produce or catch fish eat it, or indirectly if the greater production stabilizes prices and creates wider availability in local markets. Growth in the fisheries sector may also provide jobs and boost incomes, allowing for improved consumption of nutritious food in general (see Section 3.5). However, these possibilities must be considered in the context of cultural preferences. The present low rates of consumption indicate the minor role that fish play in Pakistan’s food culture; acceptance of or a preference for fish may not occur rapidly or at all. There is also a need to better understand the food security and nutrition implications of different types of development within the fisheries sector. Policy choices will lead to trade-offs and synergies. For example, a more export-orientated fisheries sector (which may be the most feasible expansion in the short term, given low domestic consumption) will play a smaller direct role in providing food security and nutrition to the domestic population, particularly for the poor, but can still have important indirect benefits (via increased incomes) for food security and nutrition. Likewise, the impact of certain capture fisheries activities, such as the use of juvenile, edible, fish for non- food fishmeal, should be considered in terms of national food security. Activities proposed: 5.1.1 Assess demand for fish and fill knowledge gaps on the trade-offs and impacts of current practices (including exports of fishmeal and imports of pangasius) on food security (Federal Government to coordinate). Medium-term There is a need to understand the opportunities and trade-offs for food security and nutrition that result from priority development of the fisheries sector. An important knowledge gap is the impact of fishmeal production on domestic fish consumption (as well as the size of lost export potential from alternative, higher-value uses of these stocks). There is a further need to assess fish consumption and preferences among different subsets of consumers, to better understand opportunities for targeted fish promotion. Research on the nutritional value of species currently consumed and marketed would also be useful. 5.1.2 Promote the consumption of fish (Federal, and Provincial and Territorial Governments). Medium-term Based on the findings from Activity 5.1.1., within-government discussions could be initiated to emphasize the role fish can priority play in nutrition and human health. Existing health programs could be augmented to include fish, where appropriate. New nutrition campaigns about the benefits of fish consumption would need to be sensitive to cultural preferences. 5.1.3 Promote the culture of small indigenous fish as a key source of nutrients and micronutrients (Federal, and Provincial and Territorial Governments). Medium-term There is a need for research into the feasibility of polyculture production methods for small nutrient-rich indigenous fish priority species, drawing on the experience of other countries, Bangladesh in particular. The findings from this research could be integrated into extension activities (see Results Area 4.3 and 4.4). Promotion would also be assisted by making small fish cultivation eligible for microenterprise grants. Anticipated outcomes of these activities include: •• An increased proportion of fish in Pakistani diets, contributing to improved food security and nutrition •• Higher production through aquaculture resulting in wider availability of affordable and nutritious fish to poorer groups, particularly in rural areas Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 90 Result Area 6.2: Greater attention for gender issues and progress towards gender equality The proportion of women who work in fisheries in Pakistan, and the wages they are paid, are highly un- equal. This mirrors broader social inequities: across the workforce as a whole, Pakistan has a strong gender disparity with 81.1 percent male and 24.3 percent female participation (ILO 2016). Pakistan ranks 143rd out of 144 countries in the 2016 Global Gender Gap Report and 130th out of 159 in the 2015 Gender Inequality Index. Reforms to fisheries should prioritize actions that disproportionately provide opportunities for women. Monitoring and evaluation of re- forms should pay special attention to gendered impacts. Actions that enable growth in the post-harvest activities and value-add subsectors are likely to improve the status of women. Women are much more likely to take on these roles than roles in harvesting (FAO 2016a and Weeratunge et al. 2010). These roles are also safer and better paid than most harvesting jobs. Activities proposed: 5.2.1 Include gender considerations in every fisheries development intervention (Federal, and Provincial and Territorial Governments). Short-term All large investment or reform programs should develop an explicit gender strategy. Project activities should ensure priority that investments made under the Fisheries Development Funds (see Results Area 1.2) disproportionately benefit components of the fisheries value-chain that employ women. Government offices involved in fisheries programs should demonstrate leadership by ensuring above-average female representation among staff, including at higher decision-making levels. 5.2.2 Improve data collection to capture women’s participation in the sector (Federal Government to coordinate). Medium-term There is a need to revise data collection templates and protocols to allow for the disaggregation of data (e.g. priority employment, production, income, and access to resources) by gender. To support this, a program of training and awareness of gender issues should be implemented at government fisheries institutions. 5.2.3 Increase the attractiveness of aquaculture for women’s employment and entrepreneurship (Federal, and Provincial and Territorial Governments). Medium-term There is a need to attract more women into aquaculture. A good first step would be to increase the number of female priority students in aquaculture-related higher education and training. This could be facilitated by promoting employment opportunities for newly graduated women throughout the fisheries industry. The FDFs could be used to support women-led or women-supporting enterprises. Programs could also require that FDF-supported enterprises commit to equal opportunities and equal pay, and report on hiring practices during grant renewal periods. Anticipated outcomes of these activities include: •• Greater contribution by fisheries and aquaculture towards gender equality in Pakistan •• New opportunities for entrepreneurship and income for women through higher participation in aquaculture. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations 91 Result Area 6.3: Community empowerment and improved livelihood opportunities Small-scale fishing communities are some of the poorest communities in Pakistan. Coastal communities of small-scale fishers have been hit particularly hard by the decline in fish numbers. Inland, more than 60 percent of fish- ing households in communities in the Indus Ecoregion are living below the poverty line (WWF 2015), and for some communities, fishing in no longer a viable source of income. Ensuring fisheries sustainability requires greater community involvement in fisheries decision-making. At present, there is little culture of stakeholder participation in fisheries management. Co-management of natural resources brings governments and local communities together to collaboratively provide management and enforce- ment. The model has been widely used internationally (Pomeroy and Rivera-Guieb 2006). Co-management allows communities to fashion regulations that best suit local conditions and moves enforcement responsibility towards those closer to the resource. Communities must be supported in their efforts to take responsibility. An overarching framework should be developed to guide co-management. Fishing-dependent communities also require support to diversify livelihoods. Financial and technical support can provide new agricultural and micro-enterprise opportunities. These may be within fishing value chains or aim to reduce pressure on capture fisheries by providing non-capture fisheries alternatives (including homestead aquacul- ture). Support for alternative livelihoods is also an important complement to any fisheries management changes that restrict access to fisheries (done to ensure the sustainability of stocks). Activities proposed: 6.3.1 Empower fishing communities to develop their own management plans (community based natural resource management) (Provincial and Territorial Governments to lead with federal government support). Medium-term There are opportunities to promote community co-management of resources and increased participation in governance priority over artisanal capture fishing. Through a consultative process, communities can be given the option to take on a greater management role of their capture fisheries resources, based on community fisheries resource management plans developed in partnership with government. Support should be provided to ensure communities have the capacity to implement their plans. This will likely be best suited to inland, near-shore or estuarine resources which can be managed at smaller spatial scales. 6.3.2 Provide extension and financial support (grants or small loans) for households to diversify incomes through homestead aquaculture (Provincial and Territorial Governments to lead with Federal Government support). Medium-term Homestead aquaculture opportunities should be made available to very poor households through community-based priority technical and financial support. Financial support could take the form of micro loans or small grants for constructing and stocking small ponds or investing in post-harvest activities. Low input aquaculture systems, which could include small-nutrient rich fish polyculture systems, are likely most suitable. 6.3.3 Provide extension and financial support (grants or small loans) for households to diversify incomes away from reliance on vulnerable or declining capture fish stocks (Provincial and Territorial Governments to lead with Federal Government support). Medium-term For fishing communities that are highly reliant on declining capture fish stocks, alternative livelihood opportunities priority should be made available through community-based technical and financial support. These may include agricultural or small enterprise activities. Support should be implemented in parallel with community-based management activities that reduce pressure on fish stocks where required (see activity 6.3.1). Anticipated outcomes of these activities include: •• Greater contribution of communities towards the management decisions over their local resources •• Diversified rural incomes and improved economic opportunities in marginalized rural areas •• Reduced economic dependence on vulnerable or declining capture fisheries stocks, alleviating pressure on stocks Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Chapter 5. Summary and recommendations Fishing boats at Karachi Harbor (Shayan Shaukat, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0) 93 Reference list Abbas, F., I. Rehman, M. Adrees, M. Ibrahim, F. Saleem, S. Ali, M. Rizwan, and M.R. Salik. 2017. “Prevailing trends of climatic extremes across Indus-Delta of Sindh-Pakistan.” Theoretical & Applied Climatology. 131: 1101-1117. Akhtar, N., and Z. Scheik. 2014. “Fisheries Rapid Market Appraisal for Sindh.” USAID Project Report. Washington, DC: USAID. Amjad, S., M. Rasheed, and M. Baig. 2016. “Mangrove Ecosystem Services: Indus Delta (PQA), Sindh.”  Journal of Geoscience and Envi- ronment Protection, 4: 179-184. Asian Development Bank. 1997. “Project Completion Report on the Second Aquaculture Development Project, Pakistan (Loan No. 916-PAK).” Manila: Asian Development Bank. Bennett, A., P. Patil, K. Kleisner, D. Rader, J. Virdin, and X. Basurto. 2018. “Contribution of Fisheries to Food and Nutrition Security: Current Knowledge, Policy, and Research.” Nicholas Institute Report 18-02, Duke University. http://nicholasinstitute.duke.edu/publi- cation Castine, S.A., J.R. Bogard, B.K. Barman, M. Karim, M. Mokarrom Hossain, M. Kunda, A.B.M. Mahfuzul Haque, M.J. Phillips, and S.H. Thil- sted. 2017. “Homestead pond polyculture can improve access to nutritious small fish.” Food Security, 9: 785–801. Centre for Peace and Development Initiatives. 2017. “Women and Living Wages in Pakistan: An examination of female wages in 2014- 2015 under prevailing gender inequalities.” http://www.cpdi-pakistan.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Women-and-Living-Wag- es-in-Pakistan.pdf Chatta, A.M., Md.N. Khan, Z.S. Mirza, and A. Ali. 2016. “Heavy metal contamination in farmed fish: A potential risk for consumers’ health.” Turkish Journal of Zoology, 40: 248-256. Clark, C. 1985. “Bioeconomic Modelling and Fisheries Management” 1st edition. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Interscience. Chughtai, M., and K. Mahmood. 2012. “Semi-intensive carp culture in saline water-logged area: A multi-location study in Shorkot (District Jhang), Pakistan.” Pakistan Journal of Zoology 44, 1065–1072. Fanning, P., P. Medley, M. Wasim Khan, and T. Valinassa. 2016. “Comprehensive Assessment of Pakistan’s Marine Fisheries Resources to 2015.” Fisheries Resources Appraisal in Pakistan Project (FRAPP). Field Document No 9, UTF/PAK/108/PAK. Food and Agriculture Organization and the Marine Fisheries Department of the Government of Pakistan. 178 pp. Food and Agriculture Organization. 2001. “International Plan of Action to prevent, deter and eliminate illegal, unreported and unreg- ulated fishing.” Rome: FAO. http://www.fao.org/3/a-y1224e.pdf Food and Agriculture Organization. 2003. “The ecosystem approach to fisheries.” FAO Technical Guidelines for Responsible Fisheries. No. 4, Suppl. 2. Rome: FAO. http://www.fao.org/3/a-y4470e.pdf Food and Agriculture Organization. 2015a. “Achieving Blue Growth through implementation of the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries.” Rome: FAO. http://www.fao.org/fileadmin/user_upload/newsroom/docs/BlueGrowth_LR.pdf Food and Agriculture Organization. 2015b. “Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries in the Context of Food Security and Poverty Eradication.” Rome: FAO. http://www.fao.org/3/a-i4356e.pdf Food and Agriculture Organization. 2016a. “The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2016: Contributing to food security and nutrition for all.” Rome: FAO. http://www.fao.org/3/a-i5555e.pdf Food and Agriculture Organization. 2016b. “Fisheries and aquaculture software. FishStat Plus: Universal software for fishery statistical time series.” Rome: FAO http://www.fao.org/fishery/statistics/en Food and Agriculture Organization. 2017. Towards gender-equitable small-scale fisheries governance and development—A handbook. In support of the implementation of the Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries in the Context of Food Security and Poverty Eradication. Rome: FAO http://www.fao.org/3/a-i7419e.pdf Fitzsimmons, K., R.S.N. Janjua, and M. Ashraf (Eds). 2015. The Aquaculture Handbook: Fish Farming and Nutrition in Pakistan. American Soybean Association World Initiative for Soy in Human Health. Washington, DC: American Soybean Association. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list 94 Ghaus, K., M. Memon, Md.A. Iqbal, N. Ahmed, N. Amir, and T. Areeb. 2015. “Gender and social vulnerability to climate change: A study of di- saster prone areas in Sindh.” Karachi: Social Policy and Development Centre. http://www.spdc.org.pk/Publication_detail.aspx?sysID=786 Government of Balochistan. 2016. SO (Cord) Fish2-1/2013/3148-54 Amendment to the Balochistan Sea Fisheries Rules (1971). High Level Panel of Experts. 2014. “Sustainable fisheries and aquaculture for food security and nutrition. A report by the High Level Panel of Experts on Food Security and Nutrition of the Committee on World Food Security.” Rome. International Food Policy Research Institute. 2014. “Global Hunger Index: The challenge of hidden hunger.” Washington, DC: IFPRI http://www.ifpri.org/publication/2014-global-hunger-index International Labour Organization. 2016. “The Islamic Republic of Pakistan Decent Work Country Programme (2016–2020).” Islam- abad: ILO. Institute of Marine Research. 2017. “Mesopelagic Initiative: Unleashing new marine resources for a growing human population.” Ber- gen, Norway: University of Bergen. Indian Ocean Tuna Commission. 2017. “Report of the 7th Session of the IOTC Working Party on Neritic Tunas.” Male, Maldives, 10-13 July 2017. WPNT07 2017. International Trade Centre 2017. “ITC Trade Map: Trade Statistics for International Business Development.” Geneva: ITC. https://www. trademap.org/Index.aspx International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. 2015. “The Red List of Threatened Species.” Cambridge, UK: IUCN. www.iucnredlist.org/ Korangi Fishing Harbor Authority. 2017. “Present State and Comprehensive Plan for Revamping Korangi Fisheries Harbor and its Operations to Transform It into a Modern Fishing Port. (Blue Growth Hub 1 – Korangi) and (Blue Growth Hub 2 – Punjab). Korangi Fisheries Harbor Authority. Khan, M.N., and A.M. Chatta. 2015. “Introduction to aquaculture in Pakistan,” in K. Fitzsimmons, R.S.N. JanJua, and M. Ashraf (Eds.) Aquaculture Handbook: Fish Farming and Nutrition in Pakistan. SoyPak (ASA/WISHH), Karachi. Lam, V.W.Y., U.R. Sumaila, A. Dyck, D. Pauly, and R. Watson. 2011. “Construction and first applications of a global cost of fishing data- base.” ICES Journal of Marine Science 68, 1996–2004. https://doi.org/10.1093/icesjms/fsr121 Lauritzen L., M.H. Jorgensen, H.S. Hansen, and K.F. Michaelsen. 2002. ”Fluctuations in human milk long-chain PUFA levels in relation to dietary fish intake.” Lipids; 37:237-44. Lind, M.V., D. Martino, L.B. Harslof, Z.O. Kyjovska, M. Kristensen, and L. Lauritzen. 2015. “Genome-wide identification of mononuclear cell DNA methylation sites potentially affected by fish oil supplementation in young infants: A pilot study.” Prostaglandins, Leukot- rienes and Essential Fatty Acids. 101:1-7. Marine Fisheries Department. 2008. “Close Season for Shrimp.” Karachi: Marine Fisheries Department Government of Pakistan. Marine Fisheries Department. 2012. Handbook of Fisheries Statistics of Pakistan. Karachi: Marine Fisheries Department, Government of Pakistan. Michaelsen K.F., K.G. Dewey, A.B. Perez-Exposito, M. Nurhasan, L. Lauritzen, and N. Roos 2011. “Food sources and intake of n-6 and n-3 fatty acids in low-income countries with emphasis on infants, young children (6-24 months), and pregnant and lactating women.” Maternal and Child Nutrition. 7:124-4. Ministry of Climate Change. 2012. “National Climate Change Policy.” Islamabad: Government of Pakistan. http://nidm.edu.pk/Docu- ments/Policies/National_Climate_Change_Policy_2012.pdf Ministry of Finance. 2009. “Sindh Fisheries and Aquaculture Strategy 2010-2013.” Prepared with the assistance of the Competitiveness Support Fund, Government of Pakistan and USAID. http://pdf.usaid.gov/pdf_docs/pnaea229.pdf Ministry of Finance. 2016. “Pakistan Economic Survey 2015-16.” Islamabad: Government of Pakistan. http://www.finance.gov.pk/sur- vey_1516.html Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Livestock. 2007. “National Policy and Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development in Paki- stan.” Islamabad: Government of Pakistan Ministry of National Food Security and Research. 2017. “National Food Security Policy.” Draft dated 2nd June 2017. 23 pp. Islamabad: Government of Pakistan. Ministry of Planning Development and Reform. 2013. “11th Five Year Plan.” Islamabad: Government of Pakistan. http://pc.gov.pk/ web/yearplan Ministry of Ports and Shipping. 2016. “Deep Sea Fishing Policy, 2016.” Statutory Notification. Islamabad: Government of Pakistan. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list 95 Ministry of Science and Technology. 2012. “National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy 2012.” Islamabad: Government of Pakistan. Nijdam, D., T. Rood, and H. Westhoek. 2012. “The price of protein: Review of land use and carbon footprints from life cycle assessments of animal food products and their substitutes.” Food Policy 37, 760–770. Panwhar, N.A., G.Q. Shah, and B. Tunio. 2015. “Resilience Assessment, MFF Programme Priority Sites in Pakistan.” IUCN and Mangroves for the Future, Islamabad. Petr, T. 1999. “Coldwater fish and fisheries in Pakistan.” FAO Fisheries Technical Paper. No. 385: 122-137. Rome: FAO. Planning Commission. 2014. Pakistan Vision 2025. One Nation—One Vision. 120 pp. Islamabad: Ministry of Planning, Development and Reform. Pomeroy, R.S., and R. Rivera-Guieb. 2006. Fishery Co-Management: A Practical Handbook. Ottawa: International Research Development Centre. Sea Around Us. 2017. “Real 2010 value (US$) by commercial groups in the waters of Pakistan.” http://www.seaaroundus.org/data Sea-Ex. 2017. “Commercial Fishing and Seafood Industry Contacts: Pakistan.” http://www.sea-ex.com/countryinfo/Pakistan.htm. Bracken Ridge, Queensland, Australia: Sea-Ex. Seijo, J.C., O. Defeo, and S. Salas. 1998. “Fisheries bioeconomics: Theory, modelling and management” No. 368, FAO Fisheries Technical Paper. Rome: FAO. Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority. 2008. “Pre-Feasibility Study—Sea Food Processing Plant.” SMEDA Technical Report. Lahore: SMEDA, Government of Pakistan. Thomas, N., R. Lucas, P. Bunting, A. Hardy, A. Rosenqvist, and M. Simard. 2017. “Distribution and drivers of global mangrove forest change, 1996-2010.” PLOS ONE 12, 1–14. Toufique, K.A., and B. Belton. 2014. “Is Aquaculture Pro-Poor? Empirical Evidence of Impacts on Fish Consumption in Bangladesh.” World Development, 64, 609–620. Trade Related Technical Assistance Program II. 2016. “Final Report, November 2009-April 2016.” European Union, Government of Pa- kistan, and United Nations Industrial Development Organization. http://trtapakistan.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Final-Prog- ress-Report-10th-PSC.pdf United Nations Industrial Development Organization. 2014. “Korangi Fish Harbor: Development of Landing Site and Business Park (Draft 3). Prefeasibility Study Report.” Vienna, Austria: UNIDO. United Nations. 1976. “Territorial Waters and Maritime Zones Act.” New York, NY: United Nations. http://www.un.org/depts/los/LEGIS- LATIONANDTREATIES/PDFFILES/PAK_1976_Act.pdf United Nations. 2016. “The Sustainable Development Goals Report, 2016.” New York, NY: United Nations. http://www.un.org.lb/Li- brary/Assets/The-Sustainable-Development-Goals-Report-2016-Global.pdf U.S. Agency for International Development. 2017. “Climate change risk in Pakistan: Country Risk Profile.” Fact Sheet. Washington, DC: USAID. https://www.climatelinks.org/resources/climate-change-risk-profile-pakistan Van der Pijl, W., A. Pieter van Duijn, and R. Beukers. 2012. “Pakistan seafood exports: Quick scan of the EU market potential.” Compiled for the Center for the Promotion of Imports from developing countries (Netherlands) by LEI Wageningen UR. Waite, R., M. Beveridge, R. Brummett, S. Castine, N. Chaiyawannakarn, S. Kaushik, R. Mungkung, S. Nawapakpilai, and M. Phillips. 2014. “Improving Productivity and environmental performance of aquaculture.” Working Paper No. 5 of Creating a Sustainable Food Future. Washington, DC: World Resources Institute. http://www.worldresourcesreport.org Weeratunge, N., K.A. Snyder, and C.P. Sze. 2010. “Gleaner, fisher, trader, processor: Understanding gendered employment in fisheries and aquaculture.” Fish and Fisheries. 11, 405–420. World Bank. 2015. “World Bank Open Data.” Washington, DC: World Bank. https://data.worldbank.org/ World Bank. 2017. “Data for Development: An Evaluation of World Bank Support for Data and Statistical Capacity.” Independent Eval- uation Group. Washington, DC: World Bank. World Bank. 2018. “Environmental and Natural Resources Global Practice towards Implementing the WBG Gender Strategy: Fol- low-Up Note.” Washington, DC: World Bank. World Wildlife Fund. 2005. “Study on knowledge, attitudes and practices of fisherfolk communities about fisheries and mangrove resources.” Final Report. Islamabad: World Wildlife Fund Pakistan. http://www.wwf.org.pk/pdf/tp_kap_kettibunder.pdf World Wildlife Fund. 2007. “Keenjhar Lake: A Wildlife Sanctuary and Ramsar Site.” Indus for All Program, World Wildlife Fund Pakistan. http://foreverindus.org/pdf/sites/keenjhar.pdf World Wildlife Fund. 2015. “Indus Ecoregion Community Development Project: Environmental and Social Management Framework.” Islamabad: World Wildlife Fund Pakistan https://www.wwfpak.org/publication/pdf/ESMF.pdf Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list (Saran Pramoonphong, Shutterstock) 97 ANNEX 1: FISHERIES MODELLING METHOD The projected benefits of fisheries capacity reduction are determined using a bioeconomic model. Benefits are cal- culated as the difference in profits between a range of defined policy scenarios (in which feet capacity is controlled by policy) and a status quo scenario. Profits are calculated from costs, which are assumed to scale linearly with fishing effort, and revenues, which are assumed to scale linearly with projected catch. 5.1. Data The bioeconomic model separately estimates stocks and catches for 13 species groups, representing the most im- portant commercial species and approximately 70 percent of total reported landings by volume. Fanning et al. (2015) provide stock parameters for shrimp, demersal, and small pelagic species groups, as well as fishing effort data in the form of an estimated time series of standardized effort.26 Different effort series are available for shrimp, demersal, and pelagic species groups.27 Prices data comes from the value of landings by species in the Sea Around Us (2017) database. A weighted average of prices is taken over species contained within each functional group. Cost of fishing data is obtained from Lam et al. (2011), who estimated the costs for specific gears, countries, and inputs (including labor). To determine cost of harvesting, the species groups were aligned with FAO FishStat categories, and attributed to newly collected data describing the quantity of species landed using each gear type at the country level (pers. comm. Tim Huntington 2017). For price and cost data, species groups cannot be completely reconstructed from the other datasets, and hence both are approximations. The average cost of fishing for each gear type for each species group is determined using the weighted proportion of each species’ catch landed with each gear type. 5.2. Bioeconomic Model The analysis uses a bioeconomic model (the Schaefer-Gordon model28) to project outcomes under different effort levels. Effort at each point in time is chosen exogenously for simplicity, based on assumptions about how a particular policy will influence effort. The Schaefer-Gordon model predicts fish populations assuming a logistic growth function in population size. Stock, Bt, at time t, is a function of fishing mortality, Ct the intrinsic rate of growth, r, and the carrying capacity (proxied by estimates of initial stock size, B0): Eq. 1 26 Fishing effort is a function of the number of vessels and workers, the capacity of vessels, the size and type of equipment used, and the amount of time these inputs are applied to the fishery. Many of these details are unknown in the case of Pakistan. MFD maintains annual records of the number of vessels in three categories (trawlers, gillnetters, and sail/onboard vessels). Fanning et al. (2016) combine these data with port clearance data to develop the standardized effort series. 27 While within these categories (shrimps, demersal, and small pelagic species), species groups are often caught together, different gear types and limited species select- ability means that the fishing effort faced by a species group may differ slightly from the effort series determined for the aggregate groupings. Effort levels are scaled for each species group so that the predicted harvest in 2015 matches the observed harvests from 2012-14. This gives a conservative estimate of effort and serves to calibrate the model based on recent historical experience. 28 This model was chosen over alternatives to ensure consistency in assumptions between this report and Fanning et al. (2016), who estimate Schaefer surplus production parameters. Estimates are made by fitting the observed catch and effort data with a Gaussian likelihood function. More detail and assumptions underpinning the use of the Schaefer-Gordon model are available in Clark (1985) and Seijo et al. (1998). Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list 98 Catch is to be a function of effort, E, (controlled exogenously by an assumed policy), fishery biomass in the previous season, Bt, and catchability, q. We approximate q from the linear relationship between observed catch per unit effort (CPUE) and biomass. This relationship captures the constant rate of change in CPUE as a function of biomass, approx- imating catchability. Eq. 2 Combining equation 1 and 2 gives: Eq. 3 Which can be solved for the equilibrium (i.e. static) sustainable yield, Y* by setting Bt+1 = Bt: Eq. 4 This equation gives a parabola that represents the long-term production function of the fishery (Figure 7). Maximizing Y* with respect to E gives the maximum sustainable yield, EMSY, which informs the effort target for our MSY scenario. This target is determined for each species group, over which is then taken the weighted average (weighted on 2014 revenue) to determine a single MSY effort target for all species groups within the demersal, shrimp, and small pelagic fisheries. It is also possible (although likely difficult) that individual MSY effort targets could be developed for each fishery via individual fisheries management plans (FMPs), informing the “targeted” policy scenarios (described below). 5.3. Policy Scenarios The status quo comparison is simply 2014 levels of capacity held constant. While it is unlikely that capacity would stay constant over this time, it may represent a conservative assumption given that effort levels have been rising for many years and continue to rise. Predicting effort levels on the basis of sector profitability, while possible, adds an additional layer of complexity and assumptions to the analysis. Policy scenarios are defined by three variables: time taken to reduce capacity (achieved through fleet limits, gear lim- its, and seasonal limits, as appropriate for each species group), the level of capacity reached at the end of the policy period, and the change in capacity in the post-policy period (Table A - 1). Changes are assumed to progress smoothly over the defined time periods. The analysis does not make claims about the likely success of any policy. It instead calculates expected outcomes should a scenario’s target level of effort (e.g. EMSY) eventuate. Table A - 1: Policy Scenario Descriptions Scenario characteristics Policy scenario Capacity reduction Capacity level targets Post-policy period capacity levels period (years) (percent of 2014 levels) Reform policy 10 MSY averaged over main species groups: demersal Remains at target level 55%, shrimp 61%, small pelagic species 41% Temporary reform 10 75% Gradual return to status quo (2014) levels policy by end of analysis period Fast reform policy 5 MSY averaged over main species groups: demersal Remains at target level 55%, shrimp 61%, small pelagic species 41% Fast and temporary 5 75% Gradual return to status quo (2014) levels reform policy by end of analysis period Targeted reform 10 MSY calculated for each main species group (as per Remains at target level policy MSY outcomes shown in Figure 7) Fast and targeted 5 MSY calculated for each main species group (as per Remains at target level reform policy MSY outcomes shown in Figure 7) Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list 99 ANNEX 2: SUMMARY OF POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS Result Area 1.1: Reformed governance for greater oversight and coordination Context: Desired Outcomes: •• The current governance system for fisheries and aquaculture is •• An overarching national policy framework, agreed to by key highly fragmented. stakeholders, that can provide the basis for the establishment of •• There is a lack of strategic policy vision for fisheries and aquaculture detailed Provincial and Territorial policies, strategies, and action development at the national level plans that are consistent across borders but tailored to fit local •• There is a need for greater attention on the problems faced by small- context scale inland and coastal fishing communities •• The implementation of a robust framework of laws and regulation to guide the sustainable development of fisheries and aquaculture across Pakistan Recommended Activities Prioritization Activity Key elements or steps for implementation Roles and sequencing 1.1.1 Develop a •• Update the contents of the 2007 National Policy and Strategy for Fisheries and Federal Short-term national, unified Aquaculture Development in Pakistan. Government to priority policy for fisheries •• Agree on an overarching policy framework harmonizing the handling of issues coordinate and aquaculture straddling Federal and Provincial and Territorial levels. These include harvest inclusive of strategies, catch reporting and MCS, certification and quarantine management, Provincial and spatial planning of aquaculture, disease monitoring, and management of external Territorial affairs and international treaties. provisions for •• Agree on roles and responsibilities of Federal, and Provincial and Territorial implementation Governments. 1.1.2 Assess •• Conduct an institutional analysis to determine the capacity of key Federal and Federal Medium- institutional Provincial and Territorial fisheries bodies. Government to term Priority capacity and •• Determine options for institutional reform of the sector’s Federal governance. coordinate options for •• Consider a single Federal body to plan and coordinate national issues in capture institutional fisheries and aquaculture, with agreed-upon mandate, budgets and staff. strengthening 1.1.3 Achieve •• Undertake an independent review of Federal and Provincial and Territorial Federal, and Medium- jurisdictional clarity fisheries legislation to identify inadequacies. Provincial term priority in light of autonomy •• Update fisheries legislation at all jurisdictional levels through a consultative and Territorial law, and strengthen approach (including spatial planning), to allow for implementation of a new Governments legislation at national framework (Activity 1.1.1). both Federal and Provincial and Territorial levels 1.1.4 Prioritize the •• Conduct a baseline assessment to understand needs and vulnerabilities of small- Provincial Long-term needs of small-scale scale fisher communities in accordance with the FAO’s SSF Guidelines. and Territorial Priority fishers and fish •• Seek closer collaboration between MNFSR and the Ministry for Planning Governments farmers Development and Reform at Federal level, and Departments of Fisheries and to lead with Planning Commissions at Provincial and Territorial levels, to design programs for Federal social protection and gender equality in fisheries and aquaculture based on FAO’s Government SSF Guidelines. support •• Programs should pay attention to offsetting any negative impacts that new resource management measures may cause for small-scale fishers. •• Update the National Food Security Policy to better encompass the role of fisheries in the nutrition and food security of poorer groups. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list 100 Result Area 1.2: Provision of finance for structural investments Context: Desired Outcomes: •• There are few sources of finance for the private fisheries sector, for •• Federal, and Provincial and Territorial institutions that deliver either large commercial and microenterprises. The existing Federal targeted finance to support investments needed to sustainably FDB and traditional credit mechanisms are likely insufficient for grow the sector and to support enabling reforms transformational investments in the fishery sector •• Socially beneficial investment based on public anchor finance with private sector co-financing •• Support for fishers and their communities to allay disruptions they may suffer from fisheries management reforms. Associated investments may take the form of retraining, provision of investment capital, and business support services Recommended Activities Key elements or steps for Activity Roles Prioritization and sequencing implementation 1.2.1 Study the design •• Seek technical assistance Federal and Provincial and Short-term priority and feasibility of Fisheries for a review of Fisheries Territorial Governments Development Funds (FDFs) Development Funds, and outline the design of the funding facility: legal measures required, institutional framework, staffing, and operational procedures to manage disbursement, monitor investments, and ensure transparency. 1.2.2 Plan an operational •• Plan the type and size of Federal and Provincial and Short-term priority program, including investments to be supported Territorial Governments, based operational procedures, (to be validated by wide on activity and geographic eligibility, accountability, and consultation). jurisdiction monitoring and evaluation •• Draft procedural rules, transparency requirements, and a monitoring and evaluation system. •• Make required updates to legislation. 1.2.3 Establish FDFs •• Design organizational Federal and Provincial and Short-term priority structure. Territorial Governments, based •• Prepare internal regulations. on activity and geographic •• Choose project/financial jurisdiction management system software. •• Prepare annual investment budget and targets. •• Establish project ex ante evaluation, monitoring system, and system integrity checks. •• Recruit and train staff. 1.2.4 Implement FDFs, •• Launch of calls for proposals Federal and Provincial and Medium-term priority first as pilots, with limited from investors (via information Territorial Governments, based geographical area or campaign, website, online on activity and geographic investment scope, followed by application system). jurisdiction full roll-out •• Train consultants, NGOS, stakeholder representative organizations, and fisheries administration staff to advise and support investors in applications. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list 101 Result Area 1.3: Build the capacity of education institutions to improve labor force skills Context: Desired Outcomes: •• Existing training suppliers in different institutions are not •• The establishment, in each jurisdiction with fisheries and coordinated, nor linked to strategic needs of the private sector aquaculture potential, of a leading training institute, following •• Training capacity has deficiencies in facilities, training content, and a curriculum with strong links to the private sector, to train an staff appropriate number of skilled workers •• Knowledge and skills among fisheries and aquaculture operators (including production and post-harvest value addition) fall short •• There are limited extension services and direct support for fish farmers Recommended Activities Key elements or steps for Activity Roles Prioritization and sequencing implementation Activity 1.3.1: Assess the •• Review existing provision of Federal Government to Medium-term priority current capacity of, and training at key training centers, coordinate development needs for, and determine deficiencies vis- fisheries technical training a-vis industry needs. •• Assess the feasibility of technology-enabled extension services. •• Develop a training and capacity-building strategy. Activity 1.3.2: Plan and make •• Plan and cost educational Provincial and Territorial Long-term priority investments in fisheries facility upgrades, including Governments to lead with Federal training institutions, with a practical learning-based Government support focus on aquaculture facilities (e.g. demonstration aquaculture ponds, laboratories, and feed mills). •• Contract works for upgrading of pre-existing facilities and construction of new facilities. •• Recruit new staff, and invest in staff capacity through industry experience placements and study tours. •• Deliver training through formal diploma/certificates, training of trainers in Government and other extension services, and short courses for operators. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list 102 Result Area 1.4: Improved SPS measures and enforcement to protect consumers and align with international standards to facilitate trade Context: Desired Outcomes: •• There are limited Federal or Provincial controls on aquatic animal •• Effective risk-based SPS measures on fish products for human health (AAH), and the system is not in line with OIE aquatic code consumption, in line with OIE and Codex Alimentarius standards •• Federal SPS controls on fishery products are divided between •• Effective risk-based controls at border inspection posts, adequately ministries. Export controls are limited to the EU. Import controls equipped with quarantine and testing facilities to protect against are not risk-based. the import and export of non-compliant products •• Provincial SPS controls have limited and variable capacity, no •• Scientifically-accredited testing services for food safety integration with food safety functions, and in Punjab, overlap with Federal functions. •• SPS and AAH border controls are not risk-based, and lack facilities for detention and quarantine. •• Non-compliant products are exported, and the sector is exposed to risk of imported fish disease. Recommended Activities Prioritization and Activity Key elements or steps for implementation Roles sequencing Activity 1.4.1 Support the •• Establish Provincial organization structures for SPS development and reform controls for fisheries. Provincial and Territorial of Provincial and Territorial •• Draft Provincial SPS regulations addressing a control Governments to SPS policies for fisheries system and technical requirements (integrated with Short-term priority lead with Federal products food safety legislation). Government support •• Prepare inspection guidelines, protocols, checklists, non-compliance procedures etc. Activity 1.4.2 Strengthen •• Recruit Federal and Provincial staff in SPS controls for Provincial and Territorial SPS controls and fishery products. Governments to inspection capacity in •• Implement national training courses and study tours Short-term priority lead with Federal fish production and in fish food safety. Government support distribution Activity 1.4.3 Strengthen •• Identify laboratories and develop business plans for the capacity of laboratories provision of testing services to the fishery sector. Federal Government to providing food safety •• Establish or upgrade Provincial Fish quality control lead with Provincial and Short-term priority testing to the fishery sector laboratories. Territorial Government •• Train staff in analytical methods, and seek support accreditation for laboratories. Activity 1.4.4 Establish •• Assess risks of food safety hazards and fish disease a risk- based SPS border hazards in relation to trade in live fish (including control system for larvae, eggs, and gametes) and fish for human and exports and imports of animal consumption. fish products for human •• Specify relevant risk-based control measures. consumption •• Develop software modules for import/export border control for fishery products to reflect assessed risks Federal Government to and control policy (integrated with existing customs lead with Provincial and Medium-term priority software). Territorial Government •• Identify and stratify border inspection posts support according to products and risks. •• Establish live fish quarantine facilities, and chilled/ frozen product storage facilities at selected border posts. •• Nominate and train risk management and border inspection staff to apply new controls. Activity 1.4.5 Establish •• Design ICT system to capture and store web-based national data collection GIS-referenced SPS and AAH data from all parts of Federal Government to for SPS fishery sector. lead with Provincial and •• Supply and install ICT equipment. Long-term priority Territorial Government •• Develop software, commission, and test, based on support established inspection and control systems. •• Train database managers and operators. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list 103 Result Area 2.1: Effective management of sustainable marine fisheries Context: Desired Outcomes: •• Marine fish resources are depleted and overfished, especially the •• A strategy for fleet-capacity reduction that includes a range of higher value species groups. management measures, including enforced licensing and spatial •• The bottom trawl fishery has very high by-catch levels, mainly and temporal restrictions based on stocks’ habitats and seasonal composed of potentially high value juvenile species vulnerabilities. These measures should result in fishing capacity •• Fishing capacity is high, and thus harvests exceed maximum and effort that are commensurate with the reproductive capacity sustainable yield, with few mechanisms to limit further expansion of available stocks •• Management of straddling or migratory stocks is not coordinated •• Harvest strategies, in the form of FMPs, for key commercial stocks, across Federal and Provincial boundaries based on scientific advice and the ecosystem approach to fisheries management •• Sustained increase in the productivity of marine fish stocks over the long term (30 years) Recommended Activities Prioritization and Activity Key elements or steps for implementation Roles sequencing 2.1.1 Impose a temporary •• Impose a temporary freeze on the entry of new freeze on the entry of new vessels into the marine capture fishery. vessels to the fishery. •• Implement more robust access control Federal and Provincial Short-term priority measures (activities 2.1.3 and 2.1.4). Governments •• Develop and implement an enforcement strategy of existing licensing systems. 2.1.2 Impose restrictions on •• Identify the most depleted fish stocks, fishing access to the most including certain demersal fish and shrimps. depleted fish stocks, and •• Identify the most harmful types of fishing gear. in conjunction implement •• Establish appropriate temporal and spatial Federal and Provincial alternative livelihood restrictions, including restrictions on the use Short-term priority Governments measures. of the most harmful fishing gear. •• Develop alternative livelihood programs for people, especially those in vulnerable communities, affected by restrictions. 2.1.3 Agree to ecosystem- •• Adopt principles from the FAO Code of based principles and Conduct for Responsible Fisheries (CCRF) and objectives for marine fisheries. EAF guidelines. •• Integrate principles into key fisheries policy Federal and Provincial Medium-term priority documents. Update and adopt the 2007 Governments National Policy and Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development in Pakistan (Activity 1.1.1.). 2.1.4 Develop an NPOA for •• Survey the fishing fleet and its contribution to fishing capacity. mortality of key stocks. Federal Government •• Decide on target capacity (based on FMPs) for to lead with Provincial key stocks. Medium-term priority Government input to •• Decide on mechanisms for reducing fishing implement capacity, in consultation with industry. •• Regularly assess impact of mechanisms. 2.1.5 Develop FMPs for key •• Identify commercial species groups and spatial Federal Government commercial species areas to be covered in each FMP. to lead with Provincial •• Agree on FMP content and design, based on Medium-term priority government input to scientific advice. implement •• Review and update at appropriate intervals. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list 104 Result Area 2.2: A well-regulated and compliant fishing sector Context: Desired Outcomes: •• An extensive, but in places incomplete regulatory framework •• A nationally integrated and enforceable regulatory framework •• Limited capability to detect and prevent IUU fishing across Federal and Provincial levels leading to comprehensive fisheries control and enforcement capabilities, backed by effective sanctions for non-compliant fishers Recommended Activities Prioritization and Activity Key elements or steps for implementation Roles sequencing 2.2.1 Develop a NPOA to •• Prepare NPOA based on consultation prevent and deter illegal with neighboring countries, Provincial Federal Government to fishing governments, the fishing industry, the Short-term priority coordinate maritime defense forces, and other stakeholders. 2.2.2 Undertake fisheries •• Undertake an independent review of Federal legislation and rules to and Provincial fisheries legislation to identify reflect the new national inadequacies. Federal and Provincial fisheries policy •• Update fisheries legislation at all jurisdictional Medium-term priority Governments levels through a consultative approach, to allow for implementation of a new national framework (Activity 1.1.1). 2.2.3 Mandate the use •• Effectively track and monitor fishing activities of satellite-based Vessel using real-time tracking system for fishing Monitoring Systems (VMS) vessels. Federal and Provincial on all commercial vessels •• Initially require VMS for the largest vessels Medium-term priority Governments greater than 15 meters in the fleet (greater than 15 meters) but eventually mandate the technology across a broader range of commercial vessels. 2.2.4 Develop MCS •• Develop a national fisheries control plan enabling actions that implements the NPOA on IUU fishing, including agreeing on institutional roles and responsibilities for MCS in Federal and Provincial waters. •• Develop fisheries control processes, potentially including (1) VMS on larger, higher risk fleets, (2) Fisheries Monitoring Centers, and (3) joint-deployment plans between Provinces, and between Provinces and the Federal and Provincial Medium-term priority PMSA), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Governments and cross-warranting between different organizations. •• Establish cost-effective fisheries control mechanisms, e.g. risk-based prioritization, joint intelligence gathering, and asset sharing. This will require considerable training and capacity building. The asset base (e.g. patrol vessels for offshore and inshore surveillance) will also need to be developed. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list 105 Result Area 2.3: A healthy and productive marine ecosystem Context: Desired Outcomes: •• Extensive, indiscriminate catch of juvenile fish, contributing to •• Spatial data on key spawning, nursery, and other critical habitats removal of high trophic levels and “ecosystem flattening” •• National plans of action for key vulnerable species, including •• Fishing effort that has spread from inshore areas in Zone I to the concrete implementation processes, to protect endangered or larger EEZ, with all of the demersal zone now fished keystone species such as sharks, sea turtles, and seabirds •• A broader range of marine activities adversely impacting marine •• Protection of critical areas of habitat via spatial and temporal habitats and resources, requiring an integrated approach to marine controls and the effective management of marine activities management •• An overarching national ocean policy framework that identifies •• The beginning of a largely NGO-driven designation of MPAs, rather national priorities and strategies for the future development of than a holistic network that protects key ecosystems on the coast Pakistan’s maritime space and in deeper waters Recommended Activities Prioritization and Activity Key elements or steps for implementation Roles sequencing 2.3.1 Identify and map •• Use GIS-based coastal and marine habitat critical coastal and marine surveys to map the distribution and extent of habitats critical or vulnerable habitats. •• Embed survey results into a marine ecosystem Federal Government to Medium-term priority monitoring and management information coordinate system. •• Note: This activity may be suited to foreign funding and technical assistance. 2.3.2 Develop an NPOA to •• Identify species groups requiring protection protect sharks and rays, sea based on existing research. Federal Government to lead turtles, and other vulnerable •• Prepare an NPOA with public consultation. with Provincial Government Medium-term priority species •• Agree on implementation processes and input responsibilities between levels of government. 2.3.3 Develop a holistic •• Based on results of Activity 2.3.1, prioritize Marine Protected Area (MPA) specific habitats and locations to be protected, and No Take Zone (NTZ) either through MPAs (which have specific network ecological conservation objectives) or no take zones (NTZs). •• Consult with stakeholders in the designation of MPAs and NTZs, with the objective of building Federal and Provincial Long-term priority a connected network of MPAs and NTZs over Governments time that protects all the key ecosystem elements. •• Consult with stakeholders to develop appropriate regulation of permitted activities within zones (certain types of fishing and other low impact activities). 2.3.4 Develop a National •• Develop a multi-agency marine coordination Ocean Policy Framework and planning mechanism. to address wider impacts •• Agree on priorities and trade-offs for the Federal Government to Long-term priority on marine habitats and development of Pakistan’s maritime space. coordinate resources in an integrated •• Prepare a multiuse National Ocean Policy with way wide stakeholder consultation. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list 106 Result Area 2.4: Evidence-based decision-making enabled through good science and information Context: Desired Outcomes: •• Marine fisheries research in Pakistan that is insufficiently resourced •• Regular monitoring and assessment of fish stocks to facilitate and coordinated between agencies, and does not fully deliver the adaptive management information needed by industry and managers •• A well-funded, integrated research plan, across relevant Federal •• Insufficient capability to monitor key commercial fish stocks, and Provincial agencies, that responds to the needs of marine undermining the ability to develop and implement FMPs ecosystem managers and resource users •• Fishery management decisions that are made based on high quality scientific information Recommended Activities Prioritization and Activity Key elements or steps for implementation Roles sequencing 2.4.1 Improve •• Develop stock assessment methodologies, timing and resourcing stock assessment to inform operation of FMPs. These should be aligned with Federal capability international fisheries management bodies and neighboring Government to Medium-term countries where required. lead with Provincial priority •• Implement an ongoing stock assessment program, responding to Government input the needs of FMPs, especially for stocks undergoing rebuilding. 2.4.2 Develop •• Develop a joint Federal-Provincial five-year research plan that marine fisheries and includes main work areas, key research providers, and budget ecosystem research contributions. This should reflect the needs of managers and capabilities industry stakeholders (both industrial and small-scale). Federal Government •• Discuss collaboration with other nations bordering the Arabian Sea. Long-term priority to coordinate •• Commission annual, independent reporting on the outcomes of research, further research needed, and lessons learned. Further funding would be dependent upon this evaluation of the relevance, effectiveness, and efficiency of past work. Result Area 3.1: Effective and equitable management of sustainable inland fisheries Context: Desired Outcomes: •• An extensive, but in places incomplete regulatory framework •• An updated legal framework for inland fisheries that reflects a •• Socio-economic challenges including exclusion due to ethnicity move to waterbody-level planning, as well as more equitable and caste, insufficient infrastructure (such as landing sites, chilling co-management systems, developed in consultation with units, and roads), and lack of access to capital communities •• Leasing arrangements that are inaccessible to traditional fishers •• Effective incentives to promote more productive inland fisheries due to capital requirements (including pro-active management measures and private •• Unfavorable subcontracting arrangements investments) •• Leasing arrangements that do not incentivize restocking, effort restraint, and other management measures Recommended Activities Prioritization and Activity Key elements or steps for implementation Roles sequencing 3.1.1 Develop policy •• Determine options for equitable and productive leasing, licensing, options for improved and other waterbody management approaches. Federal, and inland fisheries •• Convene consultation with inland fisheries stakeholders including Provincial and management traditional fishers, governments, and NGOs. Short-term priority Territorial through a •• Determine reform options that ensure equitable sustainability Governments consultative process and productivity, as well as the collection of revenues and data for governments. 3.1.2 Undertake a •• Undertake an independent review of Federal and Provincial fisheries Federal, and holistic update of legislation to identify inadequacies. Provincial and Medium-term fisheries legislation •• Update fisheries legislation at all jurisdictional levels through a Territorial priority and rules consultative approach, to allow for implementation of new national Governments framework (Activity 1.1.1). Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list 107 Result Area 3.2: Effective freshwater ecosystem management Context: Desired Outcomes: •• Freshwater ecosystems that are threatened by climate change, •• A spatial data-management system that contains up-to-date data extraction of water for agriculture and other uses, pollution, on critical freshwater ecosystems habitat destruction, and over-fishing •• Decision support tools to support freshwater ecosystem •• Lack of systematic data collection on inland fisheries management •• A coordinated system of research and data collection that supports inland fisheries Recommended Activities Prioritization and Activity Key elements or steps for implementation Roles sequencing 3.2.1 Map critical •• Use GIS-based inland habitat surveys to map the inland fisheries distribution and extent of critical or vulnerable Federal Government to habitats habitats. lead with Provincial and •• Embed survey results into a freshwater ecosystem Medium-term priority Territorial Government monitoring and management information system. support •• Note: This may be suited to foreign funding and technical assistance. 3.2.2 Systematically •• Develop an inland fisheries research framework. Provincial and Territory collect inland fisheries •• Mandate reporting of all landings, and increase Governments to lead data, and use to inform inspections to ensure compliance. Medium-term priority with Federal Government management •• Ensure mechanisms are in place to utilize the emerging support data in adaptive management. 3.2.3 Develop decision •• Develop decision support tools that integrate support tools for ecosystem information into inland fishery decision- freshwater ecosystems making and embody the precautionary principle and Federal, and Provincial management adaptive management. and Territorial Long-term priority •• Utilize decision-support tools to advise on catch Governments limits and irrigation water management that has implications for fisheries. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list 108 Result Area 4.1: Effective Planning and Management of Aquaculture Context: Desired Outcomes: •• Limited organization, management (including licensing), and •• A comprehensive, strategic spatial planning system that guides monitoring of the aquaculture sector aquaculture investments and minimizes social conflicts and •• Non-existent or limited zoning of farms to improve site selection, environmental externalities disease prevention, environmental management and to assist •• A robust aquaculture site licensing system, linked to the spatial support service delivery, post-harvest handling and marketing planning system, that facilitates management •• Lack of mechanisms for management of matters of international •• An aquaculture system that is globally competitive and compliant compliance with international agreements and requirements Recommended Activities Prioritization and Activity Key elements or steps for implementation Roles sequencing 4.1.1 Develop and •• Commission specialists to review zoning options in implement aquaculture a participatory manner, engaging key stakeholders spatial plans, including such as farmers, business groups, technical experts, zoning, within the and environmental managers, and propose spatial broader context of planning. completing a strategic •• Elaborate detailed plans for aquaculture zoning Federal, and Provincial environmental including site selection and management areas and Territorial Short-term priority assessment for the containing farms that share a common water supply or Governments aquaculture subsector proximity. •• Use already-available database software to record industry data and manage zoning. •• Note: This activity may be suited to foreign funding and technical assistance. 4.1.2 Develop and •• Commission specialists to review licensing options in a implement streamlined participatory manner, engaging key stakeholders, and requirements for propose implementation of a licensing system. aquaculture site •• Elaborate a streamlined and business-friendly system Provincial and Territorial Short-term priority licensing for licensing aquaculture activity, linked with a spatial Governments planning database. •• Implement licensing requirements, with a focus on minimizing costs to business. 4.1.3 Streamline •• Identify all inter-Provincial and Federal-Provincial the oversight and operational mechanisms, and clarify roles and management of inter- responsibilities. Provincial/Territorial, •• Streamline existing approval and administration Federal, and Provincial and Federal-Provincial/ processes. and Territorial Medium-term priority Territorial affairs and •• Develop a pathway towards adherence to international Governments international treaties treaties and obligations related to aquaculture, ensuring Pakistani presence in relevant international bodies. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list 109 Result Area 4.2: Effective planning and management of aquatic animal health (AAH) Context: Desired Outcomes: •• Limited monitoring and reporting of diseases of international significance, which is an •• An aquaculture industry with appropriate AAH obligation as a member of the Office International des Epizooties (OIE) surveillance and control systems to minimize •• Non-participation by Pakistan in the regional AAH network the risks of disease •• Lack of a legally nominated authority responsible for fish disease surveillance or •• Requisite capacity, including facilities, to control, lack of legislation which specifies notifiable diseases, reporting requirements, undertake aquatic animal disease diagnosis, and powers to restrict movement research, and control •• Fulfillment of domestic disease management responsibilities and international AAH obligations Recommended Activities Prioritization and Activity Key elements or steps for implementation Roles sequencing 4.2.1 Identify the •• Establish and strengthen AQD as the focal institution at components required for the Federal level to drive an AAH policy and ensure its a unified certification and implementation Federal Government to quarantine management •• Bring together stakeholders to agree on responsibilities Short-term priority coordinate system to regulate regarding regulation of species introductions and disease species introductions and management disease management 4.2.2 Introduce •• Adopt internationally available standards and certification and agreements (WTO-SPS and OIE Aquatic Code) quarantine •• Develop measures for diagnostics, risk analysis, health certification, quarantine, surveillance and disease reporting, contingency planning, and disease control strategies Federal Government •• Revise animal health policies and supporting regulation to lead with Provincial Medium-term priority to provide a national framework for AAH, and introduce and Territorial national certification and quarantine management Government support measures •• Designate specific points of entry for aquatic animals into Pakistan, ensuring each point has diagnostic capacity and quarantine facilities •• Invest in training of Federal and Provincial inspection staff (courses, study tours, and higher degrees) 4.2.3 Develop supporting •• Access regionally available capacity-building support for diagnostic and research AAH management and research capability •• Link AQD with the regional Aquatic Animal Health network •• Commission the Department of Zoology, University of Punjab, to expand its diagnostic capacities and to cascade Federal Government its skills and techniques to other institutions throughout to lead with Provincial Pakistan Medium-term priority and Territorial •• Upgrade AAH facilities at academic institutions and at Government support points of entry •• Build diagnostic capacity in AAH at the National Veterinary Laboratory •• Catalyze a network of aquatic animal health specialists, and build links with donors and research grant providers to begin to build research capability 4.2.4 Undertake a •• Monitor diseases in the fisheries sector and establish risk- national fish disease based assessments and protocols Federal Government survey and establish •• Implement a national survey of fish diseases and a to lead with Provincial Medium-term priority a routine monitoring reporting protocol for notifiable fish diseases and Territorial system •• Ensure that required notification of international Government support organizations occurs Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list 110 Result Area 4.3: Expanded and improved aquaculture extension and training Context: Desired Outcomes: •• Limited aquaculture extension services •• Vibrant extension services for sharing innovations in aquaculture •• Inadequate connections and information exchange between across Pakistan and internationally providers in different Provinces Recommended Activities Prioritization and Activity Key elements or steps for implementation Roles sequencing 4.3.1 Engage •• Build on the “Master Trainers” approach being piloted in Punjab in in South-South consultation with the Asian Institute of Technology, to design a system Federal, and knowledge of capacity development that trains trainers from across Pakistan in Provincial and Medium-term exchange neighboring countries that have advanced aquaculture industries. Territorial priority •• Re-engage with international and intergovernmental support Governments organizations to coordinate the sharing of learning. 4.3.2 Share •• Maintain records on Good Aquaculture Practices (GAPs) developed with best practices, reference to internationally recognized standards. differentiated •• Differentiate promotion of GAPs for different sectors of the aquaculture Federal, and by aquaculture industry, addressing the needs of commercial investors, those supporting Provincial and type aquaculture for poverty alleviation, and those promoting aquaculture for Long-term priority Territorial local nutritional and micro-nutritional security and empowerment. Governments •• Develop a network of “one-stop aqua shops” where knowledge sharing is combined with access to aquaculture inputs and equipment, as piloted in India, Pakistan, Vietnam, and Kenya. Result Area 4.4: Expanded and improved aquaculture research and development aligned with industry needs and government objectives Context: Desired Outcomes: •• Lack of well-coordinated aquaculture research and •• Aquaculture research and development that improves extension development that is aligned with industry and government materials and best-practice understanding, and adapts them to local objectives, and supports poverty alleviation, nutrition, and conditions based on scientific trials and evidence food security •• Research and development that supports sector zoning and licensing and promotes the industry’s growth in ways consistent with governments’ objectives •• Development of new types of commercial aquaculture in Pakistan through collaboration between public and private sectors Recommended Activities Prioritization and Activity Key elements or steps for implementation Roles sequencing 4.4.1 Improve •• Bring together aquaculture research and development aquaculture stakeholders to plan a research strategy that integrates Federal Government to research efforts and shares outcomes. Medium-term priority coordinate •• Provide financial support for applied, public good research in line with the research strategy. 4.4.2 Support •• Support participatory research and development in research for aquaculture, suited to people with few resources, low risk poverty alleviation tolerance, and limited capital for investment, particularly and nutritional targeting women farmers in production of small Federal, and Provincial and and micro- indigenous fishes. Medium-term priority Territorial Governments nutritional food •• Support research on aquaculture-based solutions for security malnutrition and women’s empowerment. •• Develop standard methodologies and indicators to evaluate homestead aquaculture. 4.4.3 Co-create •• Building on the model emerging from the FDB, co- Federal Government to commercial undertake commercial research and development to Medium-term priority coordinate aquaculture develop new culture systems. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list 111 Result Area 5.1: Investment in infrastructure and services that adds value and enhances quality Context: Desired Outcomes: •• Limited production of added-value products, with imported fish •• A competitive business environment and supporting infrastructure increasingly serving the domestic market that encourages value addition and productivity-enhancing •• Lack of infrastructure to support value-adding private investment investments and value chains Recommended Activities Prioritization and Activity Key elements or steps for implementation Roles sequencing 5.1.1 Support the •• Review and update the existing Korangi Harbor development of a development model and identify infrastructure needs. Sindh Government to lead competitive seafood •• Form a steering group of private sector and with Federal Government Medium-term priority cluster at Korangi government representatives. support Harbor •• Invest in catalyzing infrastructure. •• Develop a cost-recovery model based on user fees. 5.1.2 Improve •• Review market facilities and services and identify infrastructure, investment needs. conditions, and •• Form a steering group of private sector and public services at fish government representatives. Provincial and Territorial Medium-term priority markets •• Invest in market infrastructure and services shared by Governments buyers and sellers (common resources that facilitate commerce and competition). •• Develop a cost-recovery model based on user fees. Result Area 5.2: Improved productivity, quality, and market access Context: Desired Outcomes: •• Limited production of added-value products, with imported fish •• Access to new international markets for higher quality products increasingly serving the domestic market •• Productivity indicators and benchmarking to ensure value-chain •• Limited access to international high value markets businesses are ready to compete internationally •• Shortage of facilities for training in productivity, added-value •• Creation of added-value products supported by attainment of production, and quality control accepted, industry-wide safety and quality standards Recommended Activities Prioritization and Activity Key elements or steps for implementation Roles sequencing 5.2.1. Invest in •• In-depth market and competitor analysis to identify market development new market opportunities. Federal Government to activities •• Design branding and promotion strategies and plans. Short-term priority coordinate •• Support participation at trade exhibitions and other market development activities. 5.2.2 Develop •• Develop a grading scheme of quality by which Federal Government to quality standards for products and producers can be assessed and Medium-term priority coordinate selected products benchmarked. 5.2.3 Develop a •• Designate a model factory or productivity center model factory for to function as a best practice site for research and Sindh Government to lead productivity and training, including on safety practices. Ideally it would with Federal Government Medium-term priority value-add training, be located near or within the Korangi Blue Growth support and promote Codes Hub (see 5.1.1). of Practice 5.2.4 Undertake •• Establish productivity metrics, based on skills, benchmarking to processes, and equipment. Federal, and Provincial and establish firm- •• Recruit a specialist team to carry out productivity Medium-term priority Territorial Governments level productivity benchmarking within the sector. indicators Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list 112 Result Area 6.1: Improved nutrition and food security for all Context: Desired Outcomes: •• About 20 percent of the population currently undernourished, and •• Fish constituting an increased proportion of Pakistani diets, and childhood stunting rates exceeding 40 percent (World Bank 2015) contributing to improved food security and nutrition •• Very low fish consumption in Pakistan, even though fish is an •• Production of fish through aquaculture resulting in wider excellent source of protein and nutrients availability of affordable and nutritious fish to poorer groups, particularly in rural areas •• An increased proportion of fish in Pakistani diets, contributing to improved food security and nutrition •• Higher production through aquaculture resulting in wider availability of affordable and nutritious fish to poorer groups, particularly in rural areas Recommended Activities Prioritization and Activity Key elements or steps for implementation Roles sequencing 6.1.1 Assess demand for •• Assess the impacts of fishmeal production on fish and fill knowledge domestic fish consumption and food security. gaps on the trade-offs •• Assess fish consumption and preferences among and impacts of current consumers, comparing coastal and inland areas, practices (including urban and rural areas, different wealth levels, Federal Government to Medium-term priority exports of fishmeal and ethnicity, gender, and age. coordinate imports of Pangasius) on •• Document the nutritional value of species food security currently consumed and marketed, and the nutritional and health benefits for different categories of consumers. 6.1.2 Promote the •• Initiate inter-ministerial and inter-departmental consumption of fish discussions to emphasize the role fish can play in Federal, and Provincial and nutrition and human health programs. Medium-term priority Territorial Governments •• Run nutrition awareness campaigns about the benefits of fish consumption. 6.1.3 Promote the •• Undertake research on the feasibility of culture of small polyculture production methods for small indigenous fishes as a nutrient-rich indigenous fish species, drawing on key source of nutrients the experience of other countries, Bangladesh in and micronutrients particular. Federal, and Provincial and Medium-term priority •• Integrate small fish cultivation into extension Territorial Governments activities for promotion (see Results Area 4.3 and 4.4). •• Make small fish cultivation eligible for microenterprise grants. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list 113 Result Area 6.2: Greater attention for gender issues and progress towards gender equality Context: Desired Outcomes: •• Large inequalities between men and women in Pakistan, including •• Greater contribution by fisheries and aquaculture towards gender in fisheries-dependent communities. equality in Pakistan •• Unequal tenure rights (access and ownership to land and other •• New opportunities for entrepreneurship and income for women aquatic resources) that curtail women’s opportunities in the fishing through higher participation in aquaculture sector •• Gender issues that require greater attention during policy design and evaluation Recommended Activities Activity Key elements or steps for implementation Roles Prioritization and sequencing 6.2.1 Include gender •• Include an explicit gender strategy in each considerations in every large program or intervention. fisheries development •• Ensure that investments made under the intervention Fisheries Development Funds (see Results Area 1.2) disproportionately benefit sectors of the Federal, and Provincial and fisheries value-chain that employ women. Short-term priority Territorial Governments •• Encourage Government offices involved in fisheries programs to demonstrate leadership by ensuring above-average female representation among staff, including at higher decision-making levels 6.2.2 Improve data •• Revise data collection templates and protocols collection to capture to always disaggregate data collection (e.g. women’s participation in employment, production, income, access to Federal Government to the sector resources) by gender. Medium-term priority coordinate •• Impart training/awareness concerning gender issues in institutions in charge of design and/or implementation of fisheries initiatives. 6.2.3 Increase the •• Advertise and attract a greater number of attractiveness of female students to higher education fisheries aquaculture for women’s and aquaculture training. employment and •• Promote employment opportunities for entrepreneurship newly graduated women in upstream and downstream sectors. Federal, and Provincial and •• Allocate a portion of Fisheries Development Medium-term priority Territorial Governments Funds’ resources to prioritize women-led or women-supporting enterprises. •• Require publicly-supported enterprises to commit to equal opportunities and equal pay, and report on hiring practices during grant renewal periods. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list 114 Result Area 6.3: Community empowerment and improved livelihood opportunities Context: Desired Outcomes: •• Small-scale fishing communities are some of the poorest •• Greater contribution of communities towards the management communities in Pakistan decisions over their local resources •• Limited stakeholder participation and community co-management •• Diversified rural incomes and improved economic opportunities in in fisheries marginalized rural areas •• Insufficient livelihood options in vulnerable, fishing dependent •• Reduced economic dependence on vulnerable or declining capture communities fisheries stocks, alleviating pressure on stocks Recommended Activities Prioritization and Activity Key elements or steps for implementation Roles sequencing 6.3.1 Empower fishing •• Design a framework for co-management between communities to develop fishing communities and Government, outlining areas their own management of respective responsibility, through a consultative plans (community process. Provincial and Territorial based natural resource •• Determine eligibility criteria and invite communities Governments to lead management to design community fisheries resource management Medium-term priority with Federal Government plans in partnership with government, within the support framework. •• providing ongoing support (technical and financial) for participating communities, and monitor management plan outcomes. 6.3.2 Provide extension •• Design a community-based technical and financial and financial support support program for homestead aquaculture. Support (grants or small loans) could take the form of micro loans or small grants for for households to constructing and stocking small ponds or investing in Provincial and Territorial diversify incomes post-harvest activities. Governments to lead Medium-term priority through homestead •• Determine criteria for financial support (at both with Federal Government aquaculture household and community level). support •• Potentially implement in partnership with non- government organizations who have existing relationships with fishing communities. 6.3.3 Provide extension •• Design a community-based technical and financial and financial support support program for micro-enterprises and livelihood (grants or small loans) diversification. Provincial and Territorial for households to •• Determine criteria for financial support (at both Governments to lead Medium-term priority diversify incomes household and community level). with Federal Government away from reliance on •• Potentially implement in partnership with non- support vulnerable or declining government organizations who have existing capture fish stocks relationships with fishing communities. Revitalizing Pakistan’s Fisheries • Options for Sustainable Development Reference list