Geo-Politics, Strategy & Economics
The National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) has significantly strengthened its focus on geo-politics and geo-strategy in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). NIMA conducts in-depth research on the evolving maritime environment and its implications on Pakistan’s maritime interests. The IOSC analyzes geopolitical and geo-economic landscapes, offering insights into the strategic interests and security concerns of IOR stakeholders.
Blue Economy
The National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) is actively engaged in promoting the maritime sector of Pakistan through conceptual understanding of Blue Economy. According to the World Bank, Blue Economy is the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystem. NIMA’s initiatives in this domain include comprehensive research, policy formulation, and capacity building aimed at utilizing marine resources while ensuring environmental sustainability. NIMA’s strategic plan related to Blue Economy encompasses the development of maritime sector’s infrastructure which includes focus on Ports and Harbours in Pakistan, promoting shipping sector of Pakistan, practices of sustainable fisheries, advancement of renewable ocean energy sources in Pakistan, etc.
Maritime Law & Governance
Effective Maritime governance is crucial for fostering global trade, regional & national economic development and protection of marine ecosystem. International Maritime Law is a system of laws, conventions and regulations that govern actions at sea. Law Desk at the National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) closely monitors international maritime laws with the intention to provide necessary input to government and other maritime stakeholders.
Environment and Climate Change
Maritime Environment and Climate Change Centre has been set up at NIMA to enhance understanding of emerging threats of environmental degradation and climate change in the marine and coastal regions of Pakistan.
The research themes under the centre range from topics like marine pollution and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to advancements in Green Shipping technologies. Environmental and ecological preservation under changing climate and in line with international commitments of Pakistan are at the core of research carried out at Maritime Environment and Climate Change Centre.
Maritime Industries
The Maritime Industries are a vital component of the world economy, which includes Fishing, Shipping, Marine Resources, Maritime Tourism, Ports and Harbours, etc. The maritime industry is, at its core, a complex ecosystem made up of interdependent sectors that all play a crucial role in boosting Pakistan’s economy. In view of the immense role of maritime industries in the economic development of a country, NIMA has been conducting researches in 33 domains of the maritime sector.
Maritime Trade and Transport
The National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) is actively engaged in enhancing Pakistan’s maritime trade and transport sector, and recognizing its strategic importance for the country’s economic growth. This domain encompasses the regulation, development, and optimization of shipping routes, port infrastructure, and logistics services essential for international trade through research and advocacy. In partnership with a number of organizations, including PQA, PNSC, KPT, and certain others, NIMA has developed chairs to carry out research that will strengthen Pakistan’s maritime trade and transportation industry going forward.
