Plan presented to boost meat exports to $5b

CM Punjab orders measures to curb unjustifiable taxes on livestock farmers

LAHORE:

In a strategic move that could catapult Pakistan’s meat industry to unprecedented heights, the All Pakistan Meat Exporters and Processors Association (APMEPA) presented a comprehensive action plan to Chief Minister Punjab Mohsin Naqvi. Led by APMEPA President Mian Abdul Hannan, the delegation of 21 members emphasised the potential for halal meat exports to surge to $5 billion annually, provided the sector receives essential incentives.

The proposed incentives include soft loans, leased land for breeding and fattening farms, and subsidies to facilitate entry into new markets. Currently, Pakistan exports meat and meat products valued at $500 million, with $300 million originating from Lahore.

Read: Livestock termed vital for development

Hannan disclosed, “Our vision is to increase meat exports fivefold, and we've outlined various proposals in our action plan. This includes abolishing undue taxes on livestock farmers, establishing FMD (Foot & Mouth Disease) free compartments, and addressing the challenge of slaughtering female animals, which jeopardizes future supplies.”

Acknowledging the significance of reaching FMD control stages 3 and 4, the delegation highlighted the necessity of these advancements to access high-end markets with substantial potential. Chief Minister Naqvi promptly ordered measures to curb unjustifiable taxes on livestock farmers and to establish FMD-free compartments.

The exporters stressed the importance of replicating Chinese-approved disease-free compartments in Southern Punjab, a crucial step toward securing approval for chilled and frozen meat categories.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 8^th, 2023.

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