Pakistan and Vietnam have agreed to strengthen cooperation in the Halal seafood industry, signaling a new phase in bilateral trade. A high-level meeting was held between Vietnam’s Ambassador Pham Anh Tuan, representatives of the Pakistan Fisheries Exporters Association, and Dr. Mansoor Ali Wassan, Director General of the Marine Fisheries Department (MFD). Discussions focused on boosting seafood trade, regulatory alignment, and technical collaboration.
Dr. Wassan revealed that Pakistan’s seafood exports to Vietnam surged to $9 million in 2024, marking a 20% growth from the previous year. He emphasized Pakistan’s growing capabilities in aquaculture and Halal-certified fish processing, stating that with improved cold chain infrastructure and policy support, Pakistan could match or even surpass Vietnam’s seafood exports. “A $25–30 million annual export target in five years is realistic and strategically vital for diversifying Pakistan’s seafood exports,” he said.
Ambassador Tuan highlighted Vietnam’s commitment to Halal standards for seafood exports to Pakistan and encouraged stronger institutional partnerships. He stressed the need for regulatory harmonization and knowledge-sharing to enhance trade efficiency. Meanwhile, Asim Abrar of the Pakistan Fisheries Exporters Association noted that while Pakistan has traditionally exported raw seafood, it is now advancing in value-added segments like shrimp farming, inspired by Vietnam’s success.
The meeting concluded with both nations agreeing to deepen engagement in aquaculture development, investment, and trade facilitation. Pakistan aims to leverage Vietnam’s expertise to modernize its fisheries sector, while Vietnam sees potential in Pakistan’s Halal-certified seafood market. This collaboration could significantly boost Pakistan’s marine exports and strengthen economic ties between the two countries.