Commerce Ministry seeks probe into Rs50/kg cargo charge on meat exports

The Ministry of Commerce has asked aviation authorities to investigate complaints of additional charges imposed on meat export consignments, following concerns raised by exporters, according to a news report.

The move follows a complaint by the All Pakistan Meat Exporters and Processors Association, which said the new charges were increasing export costs and affecting competitiveness in international markets.

Exporters said an additional fee of Rs50 per kilogram had been imposed, with warnings that consignments would not be processed without payment.

Industry representatives estimated the charge adds around $180 per ton to export costs, raising concerns for businesses operating in competitive markets.

Officials noted that the issue had also been discussed at a recent meeting of the Prime Minister’s Committee on export of surplus food items to Gulf countries, where it was stated that the additional charges had been withdrawn.

In a letter dated March 17, 2026, the ministry requested the Director General of the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority to examine reports that cargo handling company Gerry’s Dnata had introduced unauthorised charges on shipments.