Pakistan is set to export 143,000 tons of halal meat to Tajikistan, valued at approximately $14.5m, in a move business leaders say could significantly expand bilateral trade and deepen economic ties with Central Asia.

The initiative was welcomed by the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) and other chambers, who credited Tajikistan's Ambassador to Pakistan, Yusuf Sharifzoda Toir, for efforts to strengthen commercial cooperation in the halal meat sector.

FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh described the planned shipment as part of broader efforts to enhance trade in halal products and increase overall commerce between the two countries. He said bilateral trade has the potential to reach $500m in the coming years if business communities on both sides play an active role in linking promising sectors.

According to the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), Tajikistan has shown interest in importing around 100,000 tons of halal meat to meet its demand, while Pakistan's planned exports stand at 143,000 tons. ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mehmood characterised Tajikistan as an important trading partner with scope in halal trade and agri-products.

He added that improved trade facilitation, logistics and possible preferential trade arrangements could help raise two-way commerce to $500m. Educational cooperation is also advancing through a Memorandum of Understanding for student and teacher exchanges, particularly in medical education.

Faheem ur Rehman Saigol, President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasised the need for a Preferential Trade Agreement to promote trade liberalisation and foster regional economic integration. He also called for the resumption of direct flights between the two countries, arguing that air connectivity would not only bolster trade and investment but also strengthen cultural and tourism links.

Usman Shaukat, President of the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, described Tajikistan as a key partner for Pakistan's regional integration strategy. He highlighted Tajikistan's reported annual GDP growth of 8% and urged greater exchange of business delegations to enhance economic relations.

The export initiative aligns with Pakistan's broader policy to expand its presence in the global halal market, particularly in Muslim-majority countries. Measures include improving livestock productivity, strengthening cold storage infrastructure and ensuring compliance with international standards.

Pakistan produces around 6m metric tons of halal meat annually, with surplus available for export after meeting domestic demand. A senior official at the Ministry of Commerce described the Tajikistan exports as commencing or expected in the near future, while some business representatives referred to them as planned or secured.

The move also complements Pakistan's wider outreach to markets such as Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Iran and Gulf states for meat and rice exports, underscoring a push to diversify trade partnerships and expand access to Central Asian markets.