Meeting held to formulate Policy Framework for Meat Sector and Meat Export to Malaysia

During the recent visit of the Prime Minister of Pakistan to Malaysia, it was announced that Pakistan would export meat worth $200 million. Prime Minister of Pakistan Shahbaz Sharif assured that the requirements and standards of Malaysia would be met. In this context, an important meeting was held regarding meat export to Malaysia and the strengthening of meat sector. The meeting was chaired by Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan.

Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries Haroon Akhtar Khan, senior officials of the concerned ministries, and representatives of the private sector also attended. The objective of the meeting was to increase Pakistan’s meat export to Malaysia and formulate a comprehensive policy framework for this sector.

Objectives of the Meeting on Meat Export to Malaysia

Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan said that the government is committed to strengthening the meat export sector and expanding its access to high-end international markets, especially Malaysia. He said that a comprehensive policy is being prepared under the Prime Minister’s direction that will address short-term challenges as well as long-term reforms.

He stressed that Malaysia is an “easy target” for Pakistan’s meat industry. But for this, it is necessary to effectively ensure market-competitive prices, high quality and continuity of supply. He said that the focus of the policy will be on animal disease control, halal certification, and infrastructure improvement. For this, close cooperation with provincial governments and the private sector will be ensured.

Meat Export Sector and Meat Exporters in Pakistan 

Major Issues to be Addressed

Special Assistant Haroon Akhtar Khan said that Pakistan has the potential to export meat to Malaysia worth about US $ 200 million. However, urgent measures are needed to achieve this target, including addressing issues such as foot-and-mouth disease and the ban on the export of bone-in meat. He made a two-point proposal that a report be submitted within four days, outlining steps to achieve the $200 million export target. A long-term policy framework should be prepared in the ten days to guide the development of the meat sector.

Halal Meat Export Potential of Pakistan and its Role in Economic Independence 

Federal Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain assured full cooperation from the Ministry of National Food Security and Research. He said that significant progress has been made on foot and mouth disease control and feedlot fattening projects in Punjab and they are being expanded to other provinces.

Sub-Committees to Strengthen Meat Export to Malaysia

The meeting decided to form four sub-committees for effective communication and follow-up, which will work on disease control, bread improvement, feedlot fattening and government support and policy initiatives. It was further decided that the Ministry of Science and Technology will be involved in the process to ensure halal certification and adherence to international standards, while the Sindh government will also play a key role due to the importance of Karachi port for meat exports.

In his closing remarks, Federal Minister Jam Kamal Khan directed all relevant ministries and institutions to submit their recommendations within the stipulated time frame.

Editor In Chief

Dr. Jassar Aftab is a qualified Veterinarian having expertise in veterinary communication. He is a renowned veterinary Journalist of Pakistan. He is veterinary columnist, veterinary writer and veterinary analyst. He is the author of three books. He has written a number of articles and columns on different topics related to livestock, dairy, poultry, wildlife, fisheries, food security and different aspects of animal sciences and veterinary education.

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