Punjab Plans Interest-Free Loans for Poultry Sector

The Government of Punjab is actively evaluating the introduction of interest-free financing facilities for commercial poultry investors, particularly those engaged in value-added operations such as meat processing plants and cold chain storage infrastructure. In parallel, the authorities are reviewing policy options to ease the import of modern poultry processing and farming machinery to enhance operational efficiency and product standards.

According to Dr. Sajjad Hussain Kashfi, Director General (Research) at the Punjab Livestock Department, multiple proposals are currently under deliberation in consultation with industry representatives to shape a comprehensive policy framework for the sector.

Punjab remains the backbone of Pakistan’s poultry industry, contributing over 70% of the country’s poultry farms, approximately 80% of total egg production, 85% of feed manufacturing, and hosting all poultry processing facilities nationwide. Poultry meat plays a pivotal role in moderating protein prices, particularly mutton, beef, and pulses, thereby serving as a stabilizing force in the national food supply chain.

The Poultry Research Institute (PRI) in Rawalpindi continues to provide institutional support to poultry farms through its province-wide network. Its services include disease diagnostics, technical training in flock management, and advisory support on prevention and treatment protocols to strengthen biosecurity and productivity.

Emphasizing the industry’s substantial economic contribution, Dr. Abdul Karim Bhatti, former central chairman of the Pakistan Poultry Association, stated that Punjab has attracted investments exceeding Rs700 billion in the poultry sector alone. The industry supports nearly 1.5 million jobs, largely concentrated in rural communities. The province accommodates approximately 4,866 layer farms, 17,405 broiler farms, and a growing number of environmentally controlled high-density sheds, collectively ensuring the supply of affordable poultry meat and eggs to a population of around 250 million.

Dr. Bhatti further underscored the need to promote documented, hygienic meat processing practices and encourage the growth of processed and branded poultry products to enhance food safety and public health standards. He also advocated for a transparent and market-aligned pricing framework to mitigate volatility, safeguard producer margins, and strengthen investor confidence.

Describing poultry as a responsive and demand-driven sector, he noted that sustained policy consistency and equitable regulatory conditions could significantly expand production capacity, reinforce rural employment, and effectively address Pakistan’s increasing protein consumption requirements.