By Commerce Reporter
LAHORE, December 19—President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol, has welcomed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s approval of a new strategy to boost Pakistan’s Halal meat exports, calling it a timely and strategic initiative to unlock the country’s vast potential in the fast-growing global Halal economy.
He said that Pakistan’s share in the global Halal market remains far below its true capacity despite having strong livestock resources, natural Halal production advantages and a capable private sector. The Prime Minister’s focus on policy reforms, international certification, cold chain infrastructure and supply chain improvements would help remove critical bottlenecks faced by exporters.
The LCCI President pointed out that the global Halal sector has become one of the fastest-growing segments of the world economy, valued at around USD 2.7 trillion in 2024 and projected to reach nearly USD 5.9 trillion by 2033, with an expected compound annual growth rate ranging between 8.9 percent and 12.4 percent over the next decade.
Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol said this growth is being driven by a rapidly expanding Muslim population, rising disposable incomes in Muslim-majority countries, increasing acceptance of Halal-certified products among non-Muslim consumers, and growing demand for ethically produced, hygienic and traceable products.
He emphasized that Pakistan’s Halal strategy should not be limited to Halal meat or food exports alone, but must cover the entire Halal ecosystem. This includes processed foods, dairy products, beverages, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, personal care items, fragrances, vaccines, medical products and other value-added Halal lifestyle goods that are witnessing strong global demand.
The LCCI President stressed that with proper branding, internationally recognized Halal certification, compliance with global standards and sustained government support, Pakistan can significantly increase exports of both Halal food and Halal products, diversify its export base and earn valuable foreign exchange.
He underlined the importance of close coordination between federal ministries, provincial governments and the private sector for effective implementation of the Prime Minister’s vision. He said that Lahore Chamber of Commerce stands ready to support the government by facilitating exporters, identifying international market requirements and assisting in capacity building and market access.
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Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol also appreciated the Prime Minister’s commitment to supporting the industry through bilateral agreements and streamlined certification processes, noting that these steps would enhance Pakistan’s competitiveness in key global markets, particularly in Muslim-majority countries, the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
