India’s Buffalo Meat Exports Set to Grow in 2024 Amid Rising Domestic Consumption

India’s buffalo meat (carabeef) production and exports are on track for significant growth in 2024, according to a report from the US Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). The report highlights a steady rise in both domestic consumption and export demand, with the buffalo meat sector playing a pivotal role in India’s agricultural export market.

Growing Domestic Demand for Carabeef

The FAS predicts that India’s buffalo meat consumption will increase slightly in 2024, reaching 2.97 million tonnes, up from 2.92 million tonnes in 2023. The rise in demand can be attributed to several factors, including a shift in dietary preferences, particularly among younger, nutrition-conscious consumers who are more inclined to try new foods and international cuisines. Buffalo meat remains an affordable and nutritious source of red meat in India, which has made it a popular choice in the domestic market.

Additionally, factors such as rising disposable incomes, rapid urbanization, and the increasing availability of buffalo meat through supermarkets, hypermarkets, and online retail channels have contributed to the surge in consumption. As more people gain access to these modern retail options, they are also exposed to a wider variety of food choices, further driving the demand for carabeef.

Impact of Price Fluctuations

The price of buffalo meat remains an essential variable in shaping domestic demand. The FAS notes that in 2023, the price of various meat products in India, including buffalo meat, experienced fluctuations due to supply-side factors. Despite price increases across several meat categories, carabeef remains competitive and affordable, especially compared to other types of red meat. This price competitiveness helps maintain a steady demand in both domestic and international markets.

A Promising Export Outlook

India has long been a dominant player in the global buffalo meat market, and this trend is expected to continue in 2024. Buffalo meat exports from India are forecasted to reach 1.64 million tonnes in 2024, a 5% increase from 1.55 million tonnes in 2023. This growth is driven by increasing demand from key international markets, including Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, the UAE, Jordan, Oman, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Uzbekistan, and Singapore.

India’s buffalo meat exports account for a significant portion of the country’s total animal products exports. In the 2022-2023 fiscal year, carabeef exports made up nearly 79% of India’s total animal product exports. As global demand for affordable protein sources continues to rise, India’s buffalo meat exports are well-positioned to benefit from favorable market conditions, particularly in middle to low-income countries where price sensitivity is high.

The cost competitiveness of Indian buffalo meat is a key factor driving its growth in international markets. The average export price of Indian carabeef is approximately $2.05 per kilogram, significantly lower than the prices of beef and beef products from major beef-exporting countries such as the United States, Australia, Brazil, and Argentina, where the average export prices range from $4.27 to $6.73 per kilogram. This pricing advantage makes Indian carabeef an attractive option for many importing nations.

Cattle Herd and Calf Crop Growth

India’s cattle herd, which includes both dairy cattle and water buffalo, is expected to experience modest growth in 2024. The FAS estimates the national cattle herd will reach 307.42 million head, a slight increase from the previous year’s total of 307.4 million head. Additionally, the calf crop is expected to rise to 70.6 million head from 70.2 million head in 2023, due to improvements in animal health, nutrition, and a growing emphasis on increasing buffalo meat exports.

The growth of India’s cattle population is further supported by the decline of lumpy skin disease (LSD), which had previously impacted herd numbers in 2023. With better animal health management practices, India’s cattle numbers are expected to continue to grow, reinforcing the country’s position as the largest exporter of buffalo meat globally.

Regional Hotspots for Buffalo Meat Production

The primary regions for buffalo meat production in India include Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Punjab. These areas have long been known for their robust buffalo farming industries and continue to play a crucial role in meeting both domestic and export demand for carabeef.

Conclusion: A Strong Outlook for 2024

India’s buffalo meat production and exports are poised for growth in 2024, fueled by rising domestic consumption and expanding international demand. The affordability and nutritional value of carabeef, coupled with India’s competitive pricing, make it an attractive option for consumers in emerging markets. As the country’s buffalo meat sector continues to grow, it is well-positioned to capitalize on both domestic and global opportunities, ensuring that India remains a major player in the global meat export market.