PCAF consultations in February 2026 focus on enhancing feed quality, stabilizing production, and ensuring long-term sustainability amidst rising costs in Pakistan’s poultry and livestock sectors.
ISLAMABAD: In a significant development for Pakistan’s poultry and livestock sectors, the Poultry and Livestock Advisory Council (PCAF) held crucial consultations during the first week of February 2026, addressing the industry’s most pressing challenges. With rising production costs, feed quality concerns, and the need for sustainable practices, these discussions have come at a pivotal time for the future of poultry and livestock farming in Pakistan.
Tackling feed quality: The foundation of poultry and livestock health
One of the main focal points of the consultation was the quality of poultry feed, which plays a critical role in the overall health and productivity of livestock. Industry experts and council members discussed the ongoing challenges in ensuring that feed meets the nutritional requirements of poultry and livestock. With rising feed prices and an increasing demand for higher-quality nutrients to sustain healthy animals, there is a growing concern among producers about how to balance costs with quality.
Dr. Muhammad Ahsan, an advisor to PCAF, emphasized that the need for improved feed quality is urgent, saying, “Feed is the primary cost for any livestock operation. We need to focus on local, cost-effective, and sustainable sources of feed that can reduce dependency on imports while enhancing the overall health of the animals.”
Addressing production inefficiencies in poultry farming
Alongside feed quality, production inefficiencies within the poultry industry were also addressed during the consultation. Experts pointed to the lack of modern farming practices, limited access to veterinary care, and outdated equipment as key factors contributing to inefficiencies in poultry farms. These factors not only lead to increased costs but also pose significant risks to animal health and welfare.
The council discussed implementing advanced farming technologies and techniques, such as automated feeding systems and genetic advancements in poultry breeding. These strategies, they believe, can reduce production time and enhance output while ensuring animals’ well-being.
Stabilizing production in the face of rising costs
The poultry and livestock sectors have been hit hard by rising feed and energy costs. With inflation pushing up input costs, many farmers are struggling to maintain production levels, threatening the stability of the industry. PCAF discussed urgent measures to stabilize production and find ways to mitigate the impact of these price hikes. The council stressed the importance of policy support from the government to protect the livelihoods of poultry and livestock farmers, including potential subsidies for feed production and veterinary services.
Zara Qureshi, a member of the council, called for more robust government intervention, stating, “The poultry industry is facing severe pressure from rising feed prices. We need to explore cost-reduction options, and the government must help in stabilizing prices for key inputs.”
Long-term sustainability: Adapting to environmental and market shifts
Looking ahead, the consultations also explored ways to ensure the long-term sustainability of the poultry and livestock sectors. In the face of climate change, shifting market demands, and unpredictable supply chains, producers need to adopt sustainable farming practices that minimize environmental impact and reduce reliance on volatile markets.
The PCAF discussed initiatives such as sustainable feed sourcing, waste reduction techniques, and improving animal welfare standards to help create a more resilient poultry industry. A major goal for the council is to promote environmentally friendly practices that benefit both the farmer’s bottom line and the planet.
The way forward: A collaborative effort for a stronger industry
The PCAF consultations marked the beginning of a renewed focus on collaborative efforts between industry stakeholders, government bodies, and academia to tackle the challenges faced by the poultry and livestock sectors. As Pakistan continues to grow its poultry and livestock industries, the insights gained from these discussions will be critical in shaping policies, regulations, and market strategies to ensure the industry’s long-term success. The Poultry and Livestock Advisory Council (PCAF) has committed to continuing these discussions and taking actionable steps to address the challenges facing Pakistan’s poultry and livestock industries. Their ongoing efforts will play a crucial role in ensuring that the sectors remain competitive, sustainable, and profitable in an increasingly globalized market.
