The State Bank of Pakistan has formulated draft 'Guidelines for fisheries financing' and posted the same at its web site www.sbp.org.pk, seeking feedback and comments from the stakeholders, sector experts and all concerned.
The SBP said that the guidelines are aimed at increasing the flow of credit to fisheries sector that promises rich returns to fishermen, banks and the economy as a whole, ensuring enhanced and sustained access of affordable financial services to fisheries sector, attracting investment in infrastructure and fish processing units, thereby substantially increasing fish catch, both from marine and fresh waters, and also by encouraging pond fish production.
The draft guidelines have been sent to key stakeholders, including Pakistan Banks Association, Banks, Chambers of Agriculture, Fisheries representatives, Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Livestock (Minfal) and Provincial Agricultural, Livestock and Fisheries Departments for comments and feedback by December 10, 2006.