The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has announced a nationwide increase in air cargo handling charges for the first time in five years. The revised tariff schedule took effect on July 1, as per an official notification issued early Wednesday morning.
Under the new rates, the cost of air cargo transport for pet birds has surged by 50%, rising from Rs200 to Rs300 per kilogramme. Charges for commonly shipped items like betel leaves have doubled to Rs70 per kilogramme. General cargo rates have also seen a 25% increase, going from Rs100 to Rs125 per kilogramme.
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The updated fee structure also includes revised rates for transporting pets such as cats and dogs, along with miscellaneous goods classified as general cargo. Stakeholders have raised concerns about the impact of these changes on exporters and domestic air freight users.
The cargo rate hike comes amid broader economic adjustments, including a fresh increase in petroleum prices. Petrol has risen by Rs14.80 per litre to reach Rs266.89, while high-speed diesel now costs Rs272.98 per litre after a Rs10.39 increase. The government has also imposed a new climate support levy on fuel products, adding further strain to logistics and transportation costs.
