Talking to PAGE, Nasib Ahmed Saifi, Chairman, All Pakistan Meat Exporters & Processors Association said that the industry plays two important roles: 1) ensures availability of Halal meat to overseas Pakistanis as well as Muslims living in other countries and 2) earns precious foreign exchange for the country. Please allow me to say, “We are not asking for favours, but request the government to remove the irritant, which often become stumbling blocks.”
Saifi said, “Halal meat industry of Pakistan plays a strategically important and religiously significant and economically criticalsector. This industry not only contributes directly to national exports and GDP, but also responsible for sustaining more than 14 allied sectors.” These includes: 1) Livestock farming, 2) Leather and hides processing, 3) Gelatin and bone product industries, 4) Logistics and cold chain management, 5) Veterinary pharmaceutical and diagnostic services, 6) Meat processing and packaging, 7) Rendering and waste management, 8) Halal certification bodies, 9) Feed and fodder supply chains, 10) Tallow and grease exports, 11) Work force employment (direct and indirect), 12) By-product industries, 13) Training and education institutions related to animal sciences, and 14) Agricultural and grazing-land development.”
Saifi has a genuine grudge, “Despite being a Muslim-majority nation and a symbol of Halal authenticity, Pakistan’s share in the global Halal meat trade remains shockingly low at merely 1%. As against this, non-Muslim countries like Australia enjoy approximately 16% of the global Halal meat market. India continues to expand its presence due to aggressive policy support, infrastructure development, and financial incentives to Halal exporters.”
Saifi, said, We strongly believe that this disparity can be corrected with targeted support, especially under the 2025–26 national and provincial budgets. It is,however, concerning to note that the recent budget proposals have overlooked the Halal meat sector entirely.”
To unlock the full potential of this vital industry, Saifi has proposed the following policy interventions and fiscal measures:
Reduction of Banking Charges
Saifi believes that Halal meat exporters are currently paying excessive banking, L/C, and remittance charges. Government must mandate banks to cap service charges for exporters under a special category.
Subsidized Solar Programs for Slaughter houses
Saifi was of the view that electricity is a significant cost for slaughter houses due to refrigeration, lighting, and processing. A dedicated subsidy scheme for solar installations can improve energy resilience and reduce costs.
Allocation of Farming Land in Disease-Free Zones
Saifi is of the view that Identifying and dedicating disease-free zones will ensure traceable, quality livestock for export. Cholistan, due to its natural isolation, is ideal for controlled Halal farming.
Incentives and Rebates for Halal Meat Exports
Saifi has a valid point that like the textile sector, the meat industry should be granted rebate programs and duty drawback schemes. Export refinance at concessionary rates should also be provided.
Halal Branding and Certification Support
Saifi insisted that any assistance without obtaining globally accepted Halal certifications is meaningless. National promotion of ‘Halal Pakistan’ brand in international trade fairs and embassies is a must.
Establishment of Halal Export Processing Zones
Saifi demands the government to develop specialized zones with complete infrastructure dedicated for Halal food processing.
Veterinary Health and Traceability Infrastructure
Saifi is of the view that the first prerequisite for boosting meat from Pakistan is the excellent health of animals. Since the ultimate beneficiary of export of Halal meat is the government, the Association is right in demanding the government to fund the creation of facilities for animal disease monitoring systems and electronic tagging for traceability. The real success can be achieved by strengthening coordination between quarantine departments and exporters.
Cold Chain and Logistics Incentives
Saifi has no doubt that upgrading logistics, reefer transport, and coldstorage facilities is a must. The country needs the best facilitation from slaughter house to port with minimum delay.
Training and Skill Development Programs
Capacity building of butchers, meat inspectors, and handlers is a must. Pakistan must have certification programs in hygiene and international Halal standards. Saifi believes that boosting Halal meat exports offers an unparalleled opportunity for Pakistan to: 1) Earn billions of dollars in foreign exchange annually, 2) Create thousands of rural and urban jobs, 3) Elevate the global reputation of ‘Made in Pakistan’ Halal products, 4) Ensure food security and economic sustainability through a resilient livestock supply chain. He believes it is both economic and religious responsibility of the government to uplift this sector. He urges the incumbent government to prioritize the development of Halal meat export industry by offering fiscal incentives and undertaking strategic plans.