Proper processing can raise poultry export to $2bn

LAHORE: University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (UVAS) Prof Talat Naseer Pasha said on Monday that proper processing of poultry products in the country can increase its export to US$ 2 billion.

Talking to APP here, he said that poultry products have great export potential and big market particularly in Middle and Far East countries, central Asian states and Russia.

He said that export of poultry meat would not only improve economic condition of the poultry farmers but also boost agriculture sector. Therefore, the government should pay heed towards evolving a processing system of poultry products in collaboration with private sector, he added.

About the current prices of poultry meat, he said that over production might be the cause of low prices of poultry meat.

He also denied any political interference in poultry sector.

He said, livestock sector contributes 55 per cent to agricultural GDP and 12 percent including 4 per cent of poultry products to the country's overall GDP. Poultry is the most vibrant sector in Pakistan with an annual growth of 8 to 10 per cent, he said.

Vice Chancellor said that UVAS was closely working with Livestock and Dairy Development Department Punjab and private sector for development of livestock and allied sectors.