Pakistan’s livestock sector targets modernisation and disease control to unlock export potential

Pakistan aims to boost its meat exports by improving disease management and modernising its livestock industry, as foot and mouth disease continues to hamper trade ambitions.

Pakistan’s livestock sector needs tougher disease control and wider modernisation if it is to expand meat exports and improve competitiveness, according to a briefing to a National Assembly committee in Islamabad.

Secretary for national food security Amir Ali Ahmed told lawmakers that foot and mouth disease remains a major obstacle for Pakistan’s export ambitions. The disease, which the Food and Agriculture Organisation describes as highly contagious among cloven-hoofed animals, can trigger trade restrictions and force exporters into lower-value boneless shipments, raising costs and eroding margins.

Ahmed said the livestock industry contributes about 60% of agricultural output and around 15% of GDP, in line with wider assessments of the sector’s weight in the economy. The ministry has approved a 2025 project for FMD control and has begun consultations with provincial governments and other stakeholders.

The committee was also told that Pakistan already exports meat to the UAE and Saudi Arabia, with approvals in place for 10 firms to sell to Iran, while access to Qatar and Oman is still being pursued. Industry representatives pressed for lower production costs, easier financing, better breed improvement, and a clearer framework for veterinary medicines and antibiotics.

Poultry exporters separately called for help opening markets, complaining of higher duties in the UAE and limited policy support at home.

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