Punjab Reports Massive Increase in Animal Exports

Punjab has experienced a significant 43% surge in animal exports, with 400,000 animals prepared for export over the past year, according to a government report. This growth promises to benefit rural livestock farmers, who are expected to earn a total of Rs. 11 billion, as revealed in a government handout.

The impressive increase in exports is attributed to the Livestock Card scheme, which was launched by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. This initiative provides farmers with Rs. 27,000 per animal to cover feed and fodder expenses. The scheme has been a major driver behind the surge in exports, with 129,581 animals raised under its umbrella having already been exported.

To further bolster its position in international markets, the provincial government has taken several steps. It has notified eight Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) compartments to support exports to China, Europe, and the United States. Plans are underway to establish seven more FMD compartments this year. Additionally, the government intends to set up five meat-processing plants, five modern slaughterhouses, meat-packing facilities, and commercial and corporate feedlots.

To encourage investments in the livestock value chain, the government will offer Rs. 19 billion in financing subsidies, with an expected private investment of Rs. 65 billion in the meat value chain.

Punjab is also making strides in the production of FMD vaccines, with plans for a first vaccine production unit under a public-private partnership. This project, valued at Rs. 28 billion, will be supported by private investment. Through the Livestock Connect system, authorities have successfully linked 1,725 fattening farms with 20 export slaughterhouses, 88 meat exporters, and 34 meat traders.

Moreover, the number of rural women farmers registered under the Livestock Card scheme has seen a substantial rise, from 90 in the past to 1,107 currently. The chief minister emphasized the government's commitment to improving farmers' access to national exporters and international online markets, aiming to further expand Punjab's burgeoning animal export sector.