Federal Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal said on Monday that the first benefits of Pakistan’s maritime development must reach coastal communities, as the government pushes reforms to unlock the country’s blue economy potential.

Speaking at the Pakistan International Maritime Conference 2025 at the Expo Center in Karachi, Ahsan Iqbal said that the sea plays a vital role in global trade, energy, and communication, with nearly 80 percent of global trade carried out through maritime routes.

He noted that while the global blue economy is valued at $2.5 trillion, Pakistan’s share remains just one percent of GDP, indicating the urgent need for reforms and investment in the maritime sector.

Reforms under ‘URAAN Pakistan’ vision

Highlighting the government’s reform agenda, the minister said that under the Prime Minister’s “URAAN Pakistan” vision, strategic improvements are being made across all major ports, including Port Qasim, to modernize infrastructure and enhance trade efficiency.

He added that the operationalization of Gwadar International Airport will help Pakistan gain better access to global trade corridors. Alongside this, efforts are under way to promote maritime and coastal tourism in Balochistan and Sindh.

Calling sustainable development a moral responsibility, Ahsan Iqbal said the Quran teaches moderation in utilizing the earth’s resources — a principle that should guide Pakistan’s approach to developing the blue economy.

“We should strive for development without greed,” he said, emphasizing that coastal populations should be the first beneficiaries of maritime growth and reforms.