Govt steps in to ensure fair cargo charges for meat exporters

March 18, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce has stepped in to address mounting complaints from meat exporters over additional logistics charges, which raises concerns about potential disruption to the country’s export sector.

In a letter dated March 17, 2026, the ministry formally requested the Director General of the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) in Karachi to investigate allegations of “unauthorized” fees being imposed on meat export consignments by cargo handler Gerry’s Dnata, according to a press release issued.

The move follows a complaint lodged by the All Pakistan Meat Exporters and Processors Association (APMEPA), which warned that the charges were driving up costs and hurting competitiveness in international markets.

Exporters claim the company recently introduced an extra charge of Rs50 per kilogram and indicated that shipments would not be processed unless the fee was paid.

This adds roughly $180 per ton to export costs an increase exporter say is significant in the highly competitive global meat trade.

The Ministry of Commerce noted that the issue had been discussed at a March 15 meeting of the Prime Minister’s Committee on Export of Surplus Food Items to GCC countries, where it was indicated that the charges had been withdrawn.

However, exporters insist the fees are still being applied, prompting the ministry to seek intervention from aviation authorities.

Officials have asked the PCAA to investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure a resolution acceptable to exporters, while also updating the committee on the outcome.

It is warned that uncertainty around cargo handling costs could disrupt exports of perishable meat products, which depend on efficient cold-chain logistics and timely air freight operations.

Pakistan’s meat exports have grown steadily over the years, particularly to Gulf Cooperation Council markets, as well as Southeast Asia and parts of Africa.

Maintaining predictable and transparent logistics costs is crucial to sustaining this momentum, especially as Pakistan competes with major global suppliers like Brazil and Australia.

It has been urged that regulators ensure fair and consistent cargo handling practices, cautioning that sudden cost increases could undermine export growth at a time when the country is aiming to boost foreign exchange earnings through value-added food products.

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