Pakistan is blessed with a rich and vibrant livestock sector. With vast pastures, diverse breeds, and a tradition of animal husbandry, meat production in the country has steadily grown over the decades. Yet, despite these natural advantages, meat exports had long remained modest. This is now changing . Over the past five years, Pakistan’s meat exports have recorded consistent growth, both in terms of volume and value. In the fiscal year 2020–21, Pakistan exported approximately 95,000 tonnes of meat, earning around USD 331 million. By 2021–22, despite various global and domestic challenges, the country maintained a strong export performance. Then came a significant leap in 2022–23 when exports climbed to over 100,000 tonnes, earning USD 427 million. The upward trend continued in 2023–24, with a record 123,515 tonnes exported, generating USD 512 million in revenue.
The main destinations for Pakistani meat are Gulf countries. The United Arab Emirates accounts for nearly 39% of total exports, followed by Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and other Middle Eastern and Central Asian countries. Despite these successes, meat exports still represent a small fraction of Pakistan’s total production, suggesting immense untapped potential.
China: A Game Changer for Pakistan’s Beef Industry
A turning point arrived when Pakistan entered the Chinese market, particularly in the segment of boiled beef. China, with its vast population and growing consumption needs, is the world’s largest importer of beef. Recognizing this potential, Pakistan successfully obtained export approvals from the Chinese authorities, enabling local firms to send boiled beef to China for the first time.
In 2024, Pakistan exported around 694 tonnes of boiled beef to China, valued at approximately USD 3.37 million. This was a significant milestone, but even more impressive was the exponential growth seen in the first half of 2025. By mid-year, Pakistan had already exported over 1,030 tonnes of boiled beef to China, generating more than USD 5.24 million. This represented a staggering 139% increase compared to the same period the previous year.
Not only did this cement Pakistan’s position as the top supplier of boiled beef to China, but it also demonstrated the immense goodwill that Chinese consumers and importers have for Pakistani products. Boiled beef, a halal-certified, heat-treated product, has found a strong niche in China’s processed meat industry, reflecting confidence in both quality and safety.
Chinese Support: Building Pakistan’s Meat Export Capacity
China has not only opened its market but has actively supported Pakistan in enhancing its meat industry. This assistance has come in several critical areas:
• Strengthening Animal Health and Disease Control
One of the main barriers to exporting meat to high-value markets like China is the prevalence of animal diseases. To address this, China has collaborated with Pakistan in controlling foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), a major concern for livestock exports. A vaccine production facility has been established in Pakistan with Chinese support, helping local authorities improve animal health across the country. The establishment of disease-free zones with vaccination programs has been instrumental in meeting China’s sanitary requirements.
• Infrastructure Development through CPEC
Under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), several projects have been launched to modernize Pakistan’s agricultural and livestock sectors. These include cold-chain logistics, food safety laboratories, meat processing facilities, and improved slaughterhouses. By modernizing infrastructure, China has helped Pakistan elevate its standards to meet global expectations.
• Technical Assistance and Regulatory Support
Chinese technical teams have worked closely with Pakistani firms to ensure compliance with China’s strict import requirements. This includes guidance on traceability, boiling and heat treatment processes, packaging, and hygiene. With these interventions, several Pakistani exporters were registered with Chinese customs authorities, unlocking access to a massive new market.
• Market Access and Goodwill
China’s commitment goes beyond infrastructure and technical assistance. Chinese traders and consumers have shown enthusiasm for Pakistani products. Trade counselors, exhibitions, and diplomatic efforts have created positive visibility for Pakistani meat, helping build trust and long-term relationships.
The Economic Promise of Chinese Beef Imports
China’s meat imports are worth billions of dollars annually. Even capturing a small fraction of this demand can translate into hundreds of millions of dollars for Pakistan. The boiled beef market alone has already shown how quickly growth can be achieved when both partners are committed and coordinated.
Pakistan’s competitive advantage lies in its large livestock base, halal certification, low production costs, and proximity to major Asian markets. With Chinese support, the country has begun to unlock this potential. Continued success in China can also open doors to other high-value markets such as Central Asia, Southeast Asia, and even Europe, provided Pakistan maintains high standards of quality and safety.
Benefits to the Domestic Economy
Expanding meat exports brings tangible benefits to Pakistan’s economy:
• Trade Balance: Export growth helps reduce Pakistan’s trade deficit and earns much-needed foreign exchange.
• Rural Employment: The livestock sector employs millions in rural Pakistan. Stronger exports mean better prices for farmers and more jobs in processing, logistics, and veterinary services.
• Value Addition: Transitioning from raw meat to processed and packaged products increases export revenue and stimulates industrial development.
• Technology Transfer: Collaboration with China has brought advanced techniques, better animal care standards, and new market practices to Pakistan.
What Pakistan Must Do Now
To maximize the gains from this partnership and solidify its place in global meat markets, Pakistan needs to take the following steps:
• Expand Export-Grade Facilities: Build and upgrade slaughterhouses and processing units that meet international standards.
• Enhance Disease Control Measures: Continue vaccination programs and maintain biosecurity, particularly in regions targeted for exports.
• Improve Cold Chain and Logistics: Invest in modern transport, refrigeration, and packaging solutions to ensure product quality and freshness.
• Support Small and Medium Exporters: Provide access to financing, training, and export facilitation so more players can participate.
• Build a National Brand: Market Pakistani meat globally as high-quality, halal-certified, and safe. A “Pak-Halal” branding initiative could go a long way.
• Engage in Trade Diplomacy: Continue working with China to ensure regulatory alignment, tariff reductions, and joint ventures.
A Partnership of Trust and Opportunity
The recent surge in Pakistan’s meat exports, especially boiled beef to China, is more than just a trade success story—it is a symbol of friendship, cooperation, and shared prosperity. China’s active assistance in strengthening Pakistan’s livestock sector, from vaccines to infrastructure, has created a foundation for long-term export-led growth.
This is a rare window of opportunity. If leveraged wisely, Pakistan can transform its meat industry into a powerhouse of economic activity. With consistent investment, good governance, and continued collaboration with China, meat exports can become a cornerstone of Pakistan’s future growth and stability.
China has shown its willingness to support Pakistan, and the Chinese people have embraced Pakistani products with goodwill. Now, it is up to Pakistani traders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to rise to the occasion—strengthen their capacities, modernize operations, and meet the demands of an evolving global market.
