October 25, 2006

Demand for Indian buffalo meat grows in Pak

Export of frozen Indian buffalo meat to Pakistan saw a dramatic increase on account of Eid, the Muslim festival.

Buffalo meat, transported through the Wagah border were estimated at close to 90 tonnes every day.

This has been on a rise ever since the Pakistan authorities imposed a ban on chilled buffalo meat from India, citing health hazards.

A certain level of frozen buffalo meat would continue to be exported to Pakistan even after the festival as people there preferred Indian meat than that from poultry. The meat was boneless and thus, convenient for consumption.

However, local transporters have not been able to beef up transportation of meat to certain parts of Pakistan, pointed out Indian exporters.

In view of the rising demand, Indian exporters might raise prices by US$50 a tonne.