Islamabad: A high-level meeting was convened at the Ministry of Commerce to review Pakistan’s meat export potential to Malaysia and to establish a comprehensive policy framework aimed at strengthening the sector. Chaired by Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, the meeting sought to enhance Pakistan’s access to Malaysia’s lucrative meat market.

In attendance were Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries Haroon Akhtar Khan, senior government officials, and private sector representatives. The meeting focused on overcoming export challenges and implementing long-term sectoral reforms.

Jam Kamal Khan expressed the government’s commitment to expanding Pakistan’s meat export base, emphasizing Malaysia’s potential as a significant market. He stressed the importance of addressing price competitiveness, compliance standards, and supply consistency to capitalize on this opportunity. The policy framework will also prioritize disease control, Halal certification, and infrastructure improvements.

Haroon Akhtar Khan highlighted the current potential for Pakistan’s meat exports to Malaysia, estimated at USD 200 million. He outlined the need for immediate measures to tackle constraints such as Foot and Mouth Disease and the prohibition on bone-in meat exports. A two-step approach was proposed, including an immediate report on achieving the export goal and a long-term policy framework for sustainable growth.

Rana Tanveer Hussain pledged support from the Ministry of National Food Security and Research in improving livestock standards and disease control. Ongoing efforts in Punjab for FMD control and feedlot fattening will be expanded to other provinces.

Four committees were established to focus on critical areas, including disease control, breed improvement, feedlot fattening, and government facilitation. The inclusion of the Ministry of Science and Technology and coordination with the Sindh Government were also discussed, given the importance of compliance with Halal certification and the strategic role of Karachi’s port facilities.

Jam Kamal Khan directed all ministries and stakeholders to finalize their contributions within set timelines, reaffirming the government’s commitment to promoting exports through research-based planning and public-private partnerships.