Lahore – The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has strongly opposed the imposition of a new export cargo charge by Gerry’s Dnata, calling for its immediate and permanent withdrawal due to its potential negative impact on Pakistan’s export sector.
In a statement issued on Saturday, LCCI President Faheem ur Rehman Saigol expressed serious concern over the Rs50 per kilogram charge applied to export cargo, describing it as unjustified and damaging for exporters who are already struggling with rising operational costs.
According to the LCCI chief, the Air Cargo Agents Association of Pakistan (ACAAP) has formally conveyed its concerns about the sudden implementation of the fee. The association noted that the decision was introduced without consultation with freight forwarders, cargo agents, and exporters, creating widespread uncertainty in the logistics and trade community.
Saigol emphasized that Pakistan’s exporters are currently operating under extremely challenging conditions, including high energy tariffs, rising transportation costs, fluctuating global demand, and increasing regulatory requirements. He warned that any additional charges in the logistics chain would raise export costs further and make Pakistani goods less competitive in international markets.
He also pointed out that ground handling arrangements are traditionally managed between airlines and their appointed handlers, and exporters should not be burdened with unilateral charges at the cargo handling stage.
The LCCI president stressed that Pakistan’s export sector requires facilitation, policy stability, and reduced logistics costs to ensure sustainable growth and improved foreign exchange earnings. Imposing additional fees without industry consultation, he said, could disrupt export operations and create uncertainty in the supply chain.
Saigol urged Gerry’s Dnata and the relevant airlines to review the decision immediately and abolish the charge in the broader interest of exporters and the national economy. He also emphasized that any operational or pricing changes affecting export cargo should be implemented only after dialogue with trade bodies and industry stakeholders.
He further stated that the Lahore Chamber will formally raise the issue with relevant authorities and airlines to protect exporters’ interests and prevent unilateral measures that could hinder trade activities.
Reaffirming LCCI’s commitment to the business community, Saigol appreciated ACAAP for highlighting the issue promptly and assured that the Chamber would continue working with stakeholders to reach a constructive and sustainable solution that supports Pakistan’s export growth.