LAHORE: Pakistan’s meat exporters have voiced serious concerns over the imposition of additional ad hoc logistics charges by Gerry’s Dnata, warning that the move could undermine the country’s export competitiveness and disrupt shipments to key international markets.
The All Pakistan Meat Exporters and Processors Association (APMEPA) has formally taken up the matter with the Ministry of Commerce, urging the government to intervene immediately and ensure withdrawal of what it termed “unauthorised and unnecessary” charges being levied on exporters.
APMEPA Chairman Mian Abdul Hannan said Gerry’s Dnata has recently imposed an additional charge of Rs50 per kilogram on meat exports, while exporters have been cautioned that consignments would not be processed for shipment if the fee is not paid.
He argues that the move is placing an unwarranted financial burden on the industry at a time when Pakistan is striving to enhance its export volumes. Industry representatives estimate that the additional charge translates into nearly USD180 per ton, significantly inflating logistics costs and eroding the price competitiveness of Pakistani meat in global markets.
The APMEPA chairman further said exporters were already facing intense competition internationally, where even marginal increases in logistics costs could determine market access and retention.
“Pakistani exporters require stable, predictable, and reasonable logistics costs to remain competitive in global markets,” he said, adding that abrupt and unilateral charges not only burden the industry but also risk damaging the credibility of Pakistan’s export supply chain.
The association has also questioned the legal standing of the charges, maintaining that exporters should not be held liable for such costs. Exporters contend that handling and service charges are already paid by airlines, and any financial or operational matters should be settled between airlines and service providers rather than being passed on directly to exporters.
Stakeholders further noted that the development is particularly concerning at a time when Pakistan is attempting to stabilize its external account and reduce reliance on imports by boosting exports.
Mian Abdul Hannan stressed that any additional costs imposed on exporters must be carefully evaluated to ensure they do not impair the country’s export competitiveness.
Industry circles have warned that continuation of such charges could not only escalate export costs but also prompt overseas buyers to shift towards lower-cost alternative suppliers.
APMEPA has called upon the federal government, particularly the prime minister, to take immediate notice of the issue and direct the relevant authorities to prevent exporters from facing any anti-export measures.
Exporters emphasized that safeguarding Pakistan’s export sector requires not only supportive government policies but also a transparent, efficient, and stable logistics framework, free from sudden cost shocks. They cautioned that failure to resolve the issue promptly could hinder the growth of Pakistan’s meat exports, an emerging value-added segment of the country’s export portfolio.
Mian Abdul Hannan also shared a letter from the Trade Development Authority (TDAP) of Pakistan in which the Authority had asked Gerry’s dnata to immediately withdraw/suspend the additional Rs50 per kg charges and engage in meaningful consultation with the TDAP, exporters, and other stakeholders before any future revision in the charges.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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