December 6, 2004

Shortage of Animals in Pakistan Lead to Price Hike in Meat

Prices of mutton, beef and chicken in Pakistan have been increased due to the shortage of animals in the markets.

Mutton is reportedly sold at the rate of Rs210 to Rs230 per kilogram instead of fixed official rate of Rs130 per kg. Meanwhile beef costs Rs125 per kg instead of Rs70 per kg, and price of chicken stands at Rs115 to Rs125 per kg instead of Rs65.

Consumers have complained that the butchers were directly and indirectly involved in the price hike. They urged the government to take stock of the situation and bring down the prices so that the poor could eat the commodity.

A number of butchers revealed that they were forced to increase the rates due to shortage of animals in the markets. They claimed that the traders were indulging in the export of animals to Afghanistan and the UAE.