Poultry sector needs export strategy

Haroon Akhtar Khan, Adviser to the Prime Minister for Industries and Production, addressed the International Poultry Expo (IPEX) 2026 in Lahore on Thursday and urged the sector to look beyond domestic demand. According to The Express Tribune, he said a detailed export plan is required for the industry to gain a firmer foothold abroad. He described poultry as a contributor to food security, jobs and economic growth, and as a link between rural areas and markets.

Despite high production costs, disease problems, energy pressures and uncertainty, the industry has kept investing and maintaining output, he noted. Khan said Pakistan requires output that is more efficient, affordable for consumers and competitive internationally. He also called for timely decisions on imports of soybean and other key inputs, so that feed supply remains steady and the industry gains certainty.

Khan said Pakistan should seek wider access to overseas markets for halal poultry goods that are processed, packed and sold under brand names. He linked this to halal certification, close monitoring of animal illnesses, processing norms accepted worldwide and clear traceability of each product. Biosecurity, he said, safeguards both farms and export prospects, and an efficient cold chain helps keep products up to standard and brands credible. A practical export roadmap will be drawn up with the Pakistan Poultry Association, covering priority markets, approvals, capacity and responsibilities.