At PIMEC 2025 in Karachi, Federal Minister for Planning Prof. Ahsan Iqbal set out a clear agenda to elevate Pakistan’s Blue Economy as a central pillar of national growth. Framed within URAAN Pakistan Vision 2035, the Blue Economy was presented as a transformative engine that will help steer the country toward a $1 trillion economy by linking trade, technology and sustainability.
Prof. Ahsan Iqbal described the Blue Economy as a foundation for sustainable development and emphasised a simple principle: “Progress without pollution, and prosperity without depletion, this is our commitment to the seas.” That pledge underlines a national push to balance economic expansion with environmental stewardship across coastal zones.
The minister highlighted priorities across sectors that will drive the Blue Economy, including trade facilitation, ports modernisation, shipping and logistics improvements, sustainable fisheries, coastal tourism, renewable energy projects and advances in marine technology. These areas are expected to strengthen regional connectivity and foster green innovation while creating opportunities for local communities.
Prof. Ahsan Iqbal also praised the Pakistan Navy for its leadership in maritime safety and capability building, and reiterated the government’s commitment to smart ports and green technologies that empower coastal populations. The focus on community empowerment aims to ensure that benefits from the Blue Economy reach coastal households and small businesses.
Under URAAN Pakistan, Vision 2035, the Blue Economy strategy integrates four core pillars—Exports, Environment & Climate Change, Energy & Infrastructure, and Equity & Empowerment—linking trade, technology and sustainability into a coherent roadmap for national renewal. With targeted investment and policy support, Pakistan seeks to position itself as a hub for maritime trade and sustainable coastal development in the region.
