LCCI calls for immediate removal of Rs50/kg export cargo fee, warns of export disruption

The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has called on Gerry’s Dnata to immediately abolish the Rs50 per kilogram export cargo charge, warning that the unilateral fee could disrupt Pakistan’s export sector and raise costs for exporters, freight forwarders, and cargo agents nationwide.

LCCI President Faheem ur Rehman Saigol said the Air Cargo Agents Association of Pakistan (ACAAP) had highlighted widespread concerns about the sudden imposition of the charge. He described the measure as unjustified, stressing that introducing fees without prior consultation threatens operational stability and adds financial burdens to an already strained export sector.

“Exporters are operating under high energy tariffs, rising transportation costs, volatile global demand, and increasing compliance expenses. Any additional logistics charges will directly increase export costs and make Pakistani products less competitive internationally,” Saigol said.

He noted that ground handling is traditionally managed between airlines and appointed handlers, and exporters should not be subjected to unilateral fees at the cargo stage. Saigol cautioned that such moves create uncertainty and set a concerning precedent for the trade and logistics ecosystem.

The LCCI President emphasized that Pakistan’s export sector needs facilitation, stability, and policy consistency rather than new cost pressures. He urged airlines and Gerry’s Dnata to engage with trade bodies before implementing operational or pricing changes and confirmed that the LCCI would formally take up the matter with authorities and stakeholders to protect exporters’ interests and support sustainable trade growth.

Saigol also commended ACAAP for highlighting the issue and reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to safeguarding the business community, reducing logistics costs, and strengthening Pakistan’s export competitiveness.