The federal government has launched a Rs. 90 million project to protect endangered sea turtles caught during shrimp trawling. The initiative aims to promote marine biodiversity and ensure the sustainable use of ocean resources.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, announced the project on Thursday. He said it includes the free distribution and installation of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) — special tools that let turtles and other large sea creatures escape from shrimp nets without affecting the shrimp catch.

The project also features training sessions for fishermen, capacity-building workshops, and data collection to track how well the devices work at sea.

The minister explained that using TEDs will not only protect sea turtles but also help ease fishermen’s concerns about shrimp loss or net damage. Importantly, it could help Pakistan regain its U.S. shrimp export certification, which is vital for reopening trade with the American market.

Currently, Pakistan’s shrimp exports are worth around $100 million a year. With full compliance and international certification, exports could potentially triple and open doors to premium markets in the U.S., European Union, and Canada.

He added that Pakistan currently sells shrimp at about $2 per kg, but with certification, this could increase to $6 per kg, creating new opportunities in global markets, including the U.S., EU, and Gulf countries.

The project is being supported by several organizations, including the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), PAKFEA, STOFA, KFHA, Sindh Marine Fisheries Department, and the Fishermen’s Cooperative Society.

The minister directed all relevant departments to ensure immediate and full compliance with TED standards at sea and at the docks, warning that continued violations could further harm Pakistan’s seafood exports under global traceability rules.

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