Exporting meat

In a bid to enhance meat exports in Punjab, the All-Pakistan Meat Exporters and Processors Association has submitted comprehensive recommendations to the caretaker chief minister, outlining key initiatives aimed at sustaining and expanding the industry. At the forefront of these proposals is the call for soft loans and leased land for animal breeding and fattening farms, a move seen as vital for ensuring future exports.

Despite being one of the top 20 meat exporters globally, Pakistan faces challenges in optimising its meat production. The industry’s annual growth, however, has shown a remarkable increase, reaching an annual rate of 27% since 2003. Beef, as the prime traded product, has played a pivotal role in elevating Pakistan’s status in the global meat market. However, the surge in meat exports, while contributing significantly to the national economy, has posed a challenge for small businesses and consumers, as the escalating prices have led to a decrease in affordability. The rising prices of meat have created a financial strain for small businesses, particularly local vendors and restaurants that rely on affordable meat supplies. The increased export demand often leads to a decrease in the availability of meat for domestic consumption. Individual consumers, especially those with limited disposable income, are feeling the pinch of higher meat prices. The reduced affordability of this essential protein source can have a direct impact on the nutritional well-being of the population, potentially leading to shifts in dietary patterns and choices.

To strike a balance between the economic benefits of meat exports and the affordability concerns at the local level, policymakers need to implement measures that ensure strategic pricing mechanisms, and initiatives to enhance the efficiency of the local meat supply chain. Additionally, sustainable practices need to be promoted to prioritise both export-oriented production and local affordability.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, December 11^th, 2023.

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