Pakistan is stepping up efforts to expand halal meat exports to Malaysia, targeting up to $200 million, by upgrading its animal health testing, grazing systems, and cold-chain infrastructure. The initiative aims to meet Southeast Asia’s stringent halal standards and diversify the country’s processed food exports.
Historically, Malaysia has relied on imports from Australia, New Zealand, and India due to strict disease control, traceability, and halal certification requirements. Pakistan’s government is now focusing on technical upgrades and regulatory compliance to gain deeper access to this high-value market.
In a high-level meeting of the Prime Minister’s Committee on Meat Exports to Malaysia, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan emphasized the need for FMD vaccine laboratories, improved grazing areas, and targeted exporter incentives. “These measures are essential and time-critical for tapping into the Malaysian market,” he said.
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Haroon Akhtar Khan added that a “comprehensive export strategy” is being developed under the Prime Minister’s directives. Pakistan is now fully prepared for boneless meat exports, while work continues on a framework for bone-in meat shipments. The committee also highlighted collaboration with private exporters to streamline and enhance meat shipments.
Officials say these upgrades not only strengthen Pakistan’s competitiveness in halal markets but also open pathways into broader ASEAN supply chains, positioning the country as a reliable halal meat supplier.