KARACHI, Jan 13 : Following increase in the demand in the local market and short landing of fish at the Karachi Fish Harbour, the prices of fish and fish products have soared up by almost 100 per cent during the winter season.

The Fisheries sources told PPI that the demand by fish exporters had declined substantially due to slumps in the export from Pakistan in the aftermath of the September 11 incident, and lack of demand by processing factory owners for export purpose, the fishermen had also confined their fishing activities to only 50 per cent.

The number of fishing boats, which earlier proceeded to deep sea for fishing, had declined by 40 per cent as instead of 100 boats less than 60 were leaving for journey, representing a grim scenario, the sources added.

In Karachi the demand for fish increases in winter season due to its warm effects, but this year the prices have been increased manifold, making it a costly meal item. Due the short landing the price of fish is continuously increasing in the metropolis.

The fish export statistics show that exports have also suffered on account of the value from July to November 2001, and registered exports of 37,835 tons worth US$ 63.84 million as compared to 35,226 tons worth US$70.886 million exported in the same period last year.—PPI