Punjab keeps livestock exports on the hoof, up 43%

October 20, 2026 (MLN): Punjab government has recorded a 43% increase in animal exports, with 400,000 animals prepared for export annually, as it expands support for the livestock sector through improved facilities and investment-friendly measures. The initiative is expected to generate Rs11bn in earnings for rural livestock farmers.

Additional Director Livestock for Sargodha Region Dr Naila Maqsood said that the provincial government is creating a supportive environment for farmers, APP reported.

She credited the progress to the Chief Minister’s Punjab Livestock Card Scheme, under which farmers receive Rs27,000 per animal to cover feed and fodder costs.

A total of 129,581 animals reared under the scheme have been exported so far, she said.

She said the government has notified eight Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) compartments and plans to set up seven more this year, including one in Sargodha, to facilitate exports to China, Europe and the United States.

The government also plans to establish five meat-processing plants and five modern slaughterhouses, along with meat-packing facilities and commercial and corporate feedlots.

Dr Naila said Rs19bn in financing subsidies will be provided for integrated investments across the livestock value chain, while private investment of Rs65bn is expected in the meat sector.

Punjab will also set up its first FMD vaccine production unit under a public-private partnership, involving private investment of Rs28bn.

Giving district-wise export figures, she said:

Under the Livestock Connect system, the government has established direct links with 1,725 fattening farms, 20 export slaughterhouses, 88 meat exporters and 34 meat traders, she said.

The number of rural women livestock farmers registered under the Livestock Card Scheme has risen from 90 to 1,107, she added.

Copyright Mettis Link News