LCCI Opposes New Cargo Fee for Exporters

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

LCCI President Faheem ur Rehman Saigol stated that the Air Cargo Agents Association of Pakistan (ACAAP) had raised concerns regarding the sudden imposition of the charge. He described the measure as unjustified and stressed that implementing fees without prior consultation threatens operational stability and imposes additional financial burdens on an already strained export sector.

“Exporters are facing high energy tariffs, rising transportation costs, volatile global demand, and increasing compliance expenses. Any additional logistics charges will directly increase export costs and undermine the international competitiveness of Pakistani products,” Saigol said.

He emphasized that ground handling is traditionally managed between airlines and appointed handlers, and exporters should not be subjected to unilateral charges at the cargo stage. Saigol cautioned that such practices create uncertainty and set a worrying precedent for Pakistan’s trade and logistics ecosystem.

The LCCI President further highlighted that the country’s export sector requires facilitation, stability, and policy consistency rather than new cost burdens. He called on airlines and Gerry’s Dnata to consult with trade bodies before implementing operational or pricing changes. LCCI will formally raise the issue with authorities and stakeholders to protect exporters’ interests and promote sustainable trade growth.

Saigol also commended ACAAP for raising awareness of the matter and reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to reducing logistics costs, safeguarding the business community, and enhancing Pakistan’s export competitiveness.