AVN Correspondent
TOBA TEK SINGH: The Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FCCI) Senior Vice President Dr. Sajjad Arshad voiced concerns at the financial losses being faced by the poultry farmers in the region, demanding the industry facing an unprecedented crisis, should be exempted from sales tax, like agriculture farmers.
During a recent meeting of poultry farmers, Dr. Arshad warned that the current situation threatens to disrupt the supply of eggs and chicken meat, vital sources of affordable protein for the population.
Pakistan annually produces 17,500 million eggs and 1,440 million kilograms of chicken meat, yet consumption rates remain lower than international standards.
Despite an increase in exports last year, Dr. Arshad expressed concern over the adverse impact of government policies on the sector.
He specifically criticized the imposition of sales tax on poultry farmers, contrasting it with the tax exemptions granted to agricultural farmers.
“The unequal treatment between agricultural and poultry sectors is exacerbating our challenges,” Dr. Arshad stated. “The imposition of sales tax on us is proving detrimental, pushing many farmers towards financial ruin.”
Dr. Arshad warned that if immediate steps are not taken, liquidity constraints will force many farmers to cease operations, which could lead to a severe shortage of chicken meat in local markets, worsening issues of malnutrition and stunted growth, already affecting a significant portion of the population.
In this backdrop, he called upon the government to review its policies urgently. “We urge policymakers to withdraw the sales tax on poultry farming and provide necessary support to stabilize the industry,” he said.
“Ensuring the availability of affordable protein is crucial for the health and well-being of our population,” he added.
The poultry sector’s plea underscores the urgent need for governmental intervention to prevent a collapse that could have far-reaching implications for public health and economic stability.
