Pakistan Launches $90M Initiative to Protect Sea Turtles from Shrimp Trawling

In a significant move to conserve marine biodiversity, the Pakistani government has launched a PKR 90 million ($90 million) initiative to protect sea turtles during shrimp trawling operations. The project, announced by the Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs on October 9, 2025, aims to distribute and install Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) at no cost to fishermen.

TEDs are specialized mechanisms fitted into shrimp trawl nets that allow sea turtles and other large marine animals to escape while retaining the shrimp catch. This initiative is part of Pakistan's broader efforts to sustain the country's marine ecosystems and ensure the long-term health of its ocean resources.

The project will also feature capacity-building workshops, hands-on training for trawler crews, and data collection to monitor the devices' impact on shrimp catch efficiency and net performance. The minister stressed that the use of TEDs will significantly reduce the accidental capture of endangered sea turtles, mitigate concerns from fishermen over shrimp loss and net damage, and pave the way for Pakistan to regain its US certification—a crucial step in resuming shrimp exports to the lucrative American market.

This move aligns with Pakistan's international commitments on marine sustainability and biodiversity conservation, ensuring compliance with global seafood traceability and sustainability standards. The initiative is expected to showcase Pakistan's commitment to responsible marine resource management, enhancing its reputation in the global seafood trade.