Arooj Zulfiqar

Pakistan is endowed with one of the largest livestock populations in the world, from which an immense export potential for meat products is yet to be tapped, reports WealthPK.

"With rising demand for halal meat worldwide and Pakistan’s established reputation as a halal meat producer, Pakistan has a unique opportunity to emerge as a key player in the global meat trade,” said Dr Mansoor Ahmad, former director general of Livestock & Dairy Development Department, Punjab. Speaking to WealthPK, he said: “The global halal meat market is growing rapidly, with increasing demand from Muslim countries and non-Muslim consumers who are looking for high-quality meat that meets their dietary requirements.” “Pakistan is one of the largest producers of halal meat in the world, and exporting it can be a valuable source of foreign exchange.

By exporting halal meat, Pakistan can make around Rs50 billion a year. However, a number of limiting factors are impeding export growth,” he pointed out. “Pakistan’s meat processing industry often struggles to meet stringent international standards for hygiene, packaging and traceability. This limits its access to lucrative markets. Inefficient cold chain systems and inadequate transport infrastructure significantly increase the cost of maintaining product quality during exports,” he explained. “Additionally, poor livestock breeding practices and limited access to quality feed result in lower yield and inconsistent quality, making Pakistani meat less competitive globally,” Ahmad said.

He said small-scale farmers and meat processors often lack the resources and expertise to establish direct connections with global buyers, leaving them dependent on middlemen. “While policies exist to promote exports, inconsistent enforcement and lack of streamlined regulations pose challenges for exporters.” The former DG Livestock & Dairy Development Department, Punjab, said: “To unlock its potential in the global meat market, Pakistan must address systemic inefficiencies through targeted reforms. Investments in state-of-the-art slaughterhouses, cold storage facilities, and transportation networks are crucial to maintain product quality.

Establishing robust mechanisms to meet international quality and safety standards can open doors to premium markets. Encouraging innovation in livestock breeding, feed production and meat processing can enhance productivity and competitiveness. Leveraging partnerships between government bodies and private sector players can improve capacity and streamline export operations. Negotiating favourable trade agreements with high-demand regions can facilitate easier market entry for Pakistani meat products.” Pakistan’s meat exports have experienced consistent growth due to increasing demand in Middle Eastern markets.

Exports of meat and meat products reached an all-time high of $512 million in FY24, reflecting a 20% increase from $426 million in the previous year. This surge is linked to a 24% growth in export volume, which rose to 123,515 tonnes from 99,892 tonnes in the prior fiscal year, driven by robust international demand and competitive pricing following a notable devaluation of the rupee. The UAE remained the largest market for Pakistani meat, representing 39% of total exports valued at $200 million. Saudi Arabia became the second-largest destination for Pakistani meat, accounting for 28% of total meat exports.

Credit: INP-WealthPk