Pakistan has exported around 103,277 tons of fish and fish preparations during first three quarters of last fiscal year which contributed $276.269 million precious foreign exchange to national exchequer. The export of fish and fish preparations during same period of 2015-16 was 92,046 tons, amounting to $240.038 million. A data issued by Commerce Division on Wednesday revealed that exports of fish and fish preparations have witnessed an increase by 12.2 per cent in quantity and 15.09 per cent in value during last year. The major buyers are China, Thailand, Malaysia, Middle East, Sri Lanka, Japan etc. The sources said fishery plays an important role in Pakistan’s economy and is considered to be a source of livelihood for coastal inhabitants. Apart from marine fisheries, inland fisheries (based in rivers, lakes, ponds, dams etc.) is also very important activity throughout the country. Fisheries’ share in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is 0.41 per cent but has a value addition in export earnings. During 2016-17 (July-March), total marine and inland fish production was estimated at 520,000 tons out of which 375,000 tons was marine production and remaining catch came from inland waters. Whereas the production for period 2015-16 (July-March), was estimated to be 501,000 tons in which 368,000 tons was marine and remaining was produced by inland fishery sector. The sources said to improve fisheries sector a number of initiative were being taken by federal and provincial fisheries departments which included inter alia strengthening of extension services, introduction of new fishing methodologies, development of value added products, enhancement of per capita consumption of fish, and up-gradation of socio-economic conditions of the fishermen’s community.