Federal Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has stated that Pakistan's poultry industry possesses significant potential for increasing exports; however, to compete in global markets, it is essential to control diseases, reduce poultry feed costs, and improve cold chain infrastructure.Addressing the 26th International Poultry Expo held at the Expo Centre as the chief guest, Muhammad Aurangzeb noted that poultry accounts for approximately $23 million to $24 million of Pakistan's total meat exports, which stand at $530 million. He remarked that these figures highlight the immense potential of the poultry industry in both domestic and international markets.He stated that Pakistan is the 11th largest poultry-producing country in the world. The question now is how to break into the top ten global poultry producers and subsequently reach the fifth position.Identifying the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia as potential markets for Pakistani poultry products, he remarked that the poultry industry could play a pivotal role in boosting the country's meat exports.Muhammad Aurangzeb noted that there is immense potential for poultry product exports. He highlighted the GCC nations as key markets, while also pointing to emerging opportunities in Central Asia—specifically Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan—as well as in Southeast Asia.
Muhammad Aurangzeb stated that the government is prepared to consult with industry representatives regarding tax-related matters prior to the upcoming budget. He added that the concerns raised by the poultry sector concerning tax policy would be reviewed.However, the Finance Minister noted that while taxation is one issue, boosting exports also requires focusing on disease control, reducing poultry feed and other production costs, and improving processing facilities and cold chain systems.