Pakistan’s meat export sector is raising serious concerns after new logistics charges introduced by Gerry’s Dnata threatened to increase costs and disrupt international shipments.
The All Pakistan Meat Exporters & Processors Association (APMEPA) has formally approached the Ministry of Commerce, calling the charges unauthorized and unjustified and urging immediate government intervention.
Gerry’s Dnata has imposed an additional Rs. 50 per kilogram fee on meat exports and warned that shipments may not be processed without payment.
Exporters estimate this adds roughly $180 per ton, which could significantly increase overall logistics costs.
APMEPA Chairman Mian Abdul Hannan said exporters are already operating in a highly competitive global market, where even small cost increases can impact deals.
- Higher costs could make Pakistani meat less competitive
- Buyers may shift to countries with cheaper logistics
- Export margins could shrink significantly
The association also questioned the legality of the charges, arguing that such handling costs are typically borne by airlines, not exporters.
This issue comes at a sensitive time when Pakistan is trying to:
- Increase exports
- Strengthen foreign exchange inflows
- Reduce reliance on imports
Industry stakeholders warn that if unresolved, the move could:
- Disrupt export shipments
- Damage buyer confidence
- Slow down growth in a key agricultural export sector
APMEPA has asked the Government of Pakistan and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to step in and ensure exporters are not burdened with additional costs that could hurt competitiveness.
The association says a quick resolution is critical to protect Pakistan’s position in global meat markets and maintain export momentum.
