A high level committee on Friday finalised a comprehensive meat export plan to Malaysia, in line with the prime minister’s vision and set a target of $200 million in meat exports over the next three to five years.
The meeting was jointly chaired by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan, Minister for National Food Security Rana Tanveer Hussain, and Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, said a news release.
The committee presented the final business plan for meat exports to Malaysia, marking a major step toward expanding Pakistan’s footprint in the international halal meat market. SAPM Haroon commended the collaborative efforts of all ministries and stakeholders in preparing the export business model, saying that, “An efficient business framework for meat exports has been developed. All members of the committee and ministries have done an outstanding job.” Jam Kamal highlighted the joint contributions of all stakeholders, noting, “This package is the result of collective efforts and consensus among all concerned sectors.” Under the PM’s vision, a target of $ 200 million in meat exports to Malaysia over the next 3 to 5 years has been set. Currently, Pakistan exports buffalo meat worth $38,000 to Malaysia, as disclosed during the meeting. The committee identified major challenges affecting exports, including foot-and-mouth diseases, processing deficiencies, and logistical hurdles.
Haroon announced that, “The halal meat sector will be granted industry status. This will increase exports and strengthen Pakistan’s economy.” He added that a practical business plan has been designed with mutual consultation, and specific tasks with timelines have been assigned to each sector and stakeholder to achieve the $ 200 million target.
Jam Kamal underscored the significance of financial facilitation, adding, “To reduce export costs and provide incentives, the banking sector, provincial and federal governments, and the State Bank of Pakistan will play a crucial role.” Rana Tanveer said that modern slaughterhouses will be established in accordance with Malaysian standards, facilitating compliance and strengthening trade potential. “These incentives will enable Pakistani halal beef to successfully reach the global market,” Haroon remarked. The meeting was also attended by representatives from the relevant ministries, public and private sector stakeholders, and technical consultants.