Halal Meat Export Potential of Pakistan and Its Role in Economic Independence
Pakistan’s struggle for economic independence has not been completed even after 78 years. Although political independence was achieved, the country is still under the pressure of external debt, inflation, and weak foreign exchange reserves. For sustainable and continuous development, Pakistan will have to move towards an export-led economy and the halal meat sector, specially Halal Meat Export, can be the biggest hope in this journey. These views were expressed by Nasib Ahmed Saifi, CEO of Anees Associates and Chairman Saifi Group of Companies, in an exclusive interview.
Mr. Nasib Ahmed Saifi is the Chairman of Saif Group of Companies (UAE, Pakistan, Thailand & USA) and Chief Executive Officer of Anis Associates (Pvt) Ltd. – A High Quality Halal Meat and Meat Products Processors & Exporters. He is also Chairman of the Standing Committee on Halal Food Import & Export, Patron of Lahore General Hospital – Lahore, and former Executive Committee Member – LCCI.
He said that true independence is achieved when a country becomes economically self-sufficient. Halal meat exports can provide Pakistan with foreign exchange, create employment opportunities and support the rural economy. This sector is the key to Pakistan’s economic revival and can make it a pioneer of national development.
Anees Associates and Saifi Group of Companies
International Market of Halal Meat Export
He further said that the halal meat industry is growing rapidly around the world, which has reached trillions of dollars in value. Brazil, Australia, and India currently hold a prominent position through modern production and large-scale exports. Pakistan, rich in livestock, has the potential to supply meat to regions like the Middle East, Central Asi,a and Southeast Asia.
Livestock and Export Potential of Pakistan
Nasib Ahmed Saifi added that the real strength of halal meat sector lies in its wide-ranging economic impact. The growth of this industry directly benefits farmers and livestock farmers, and increases the demand for feed products, veterinary services and medicines. Similarly, slaughterhouses, packaging companies, transport and cold storage sectors also thrive. By-products such as hides and bones support the leather, pharmaceuticals and energy sectors.
History of Meat and its Nutritional Value
Issues of Meat Export Sector and Solutions
Nasib Ahmed Saifi said that Pakistan also faces many obstacles in promoting the halal meat industry. Exports mostly consist of low-value products, while less attention is being paid to processed and more profitable products. Disease control in livestock is the biggest problem. Foot and mouth disease and other diseases prevent Pakistan from accessing high-end global markets. Rising energy costs, unregulated slaughterhouses and lack of disease-free farms are also major challenges.
Nasib Ahmed Saifi added that Pakistan needs to invest in modern systems to overcome these problems. Establishing disease-free zones in Punjab and Sindh, subsidizing energy and introducing solar-powered cold chains will reduce costs and ensure stability in the sector. Similarly, focusing on frozen meat, sausages and ready-to-cook items through a change in export strategy will be more profitable. More effective control of livestock diseases and trade diplomacy can take Pakistan’s halal meat sector to new global markets.
