Buffalo Meat Dominates India’s Animal Product Exports in 2023-24

India has long been a global powerhouse in the production and export of animal products, and the 2023-24 fiscal year has been no exception. In a year marked by continued demand for high-quality animal products, India’s exports of buffalo meat, milk, eggs, and other items have showcased the country’s strong position in the international marketplace.

A Record-Breaking Export Year

India’s total exports of animal products for the fiscal year 2023-24 amounted to ₹37,665.51 crore (approximately $4,543.52 million), a significant contribution to the nation’s agricultural and trade sectors. This figure highlights the growing global demand for Indian animal products and reflects the country’s robust supply chain capabilities. Among these exports, buffalo meat (carabeef) emerged as the clear leader, accounting for a remarkable ₹31,010.10 crore (about $3,740.53 million), which is over 82% of the total export value.

Buffalo Meat: The Dominant Export

Buffalo meat continues to be India’s most important animal product export, and its share in the total export value underscores its central role in the global market. Indian buffalo meat is prized for its affordability, high nutritional value, and growing presence in both traditional and emerging markets. The demand for buffalo meat has surged across various regions, particularly in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Africa.

Countries such as Vietnam, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and the UAE are major importers of Indian buffalo meat, driven by the product’s competitive pricing and consistent supply. In addition to these traditional markets, India has seen an uptick in exports to new destinations, reflecting the expanding global appetite for carabeef.

Diverse Animal Product Exports

Beyond buffalo meat, India’s animal product export portfolio is diverse, covering a wide range of goods such as poultry, dairy products, and honey. Other notable export items include sheep and goat meat, animal casings, processed meat, and eggs. However, buffalo meat remains the standout performer, driving the bulk of India’s animal product export revenues.

• Sheep/Goat Meat: ₹643.55 crore ($77.68 million)
• Poultry Products: ₹1,530.20 crore ($184.58 million)
• Dairy Products: ₹2,260.94 crore ($272.64 million)
• Natural Honey: ₹1,470.84 crore ($177.52 million)

These figures reveal the range of animal products that contribute to India’s export economy, with meat products dominating the scene.

The Growing Global Demand for Indian Animal Products

India’s animal products industry benefits from a combination of competitive pricing, robust production capabilities, and a growing consumer base across the globe. The country’s strategic position as a leading producer of buffalo meat, in particular, allows it to capitalize on the increasing demand for affordable, high-quality protein sources, especially in developing and emerging markets.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

While the growth in animal product exports is promising, India’s export industry faces several challenges, including fluctuating global prices, logistical hurdles, and geopolitical risks. However, the country’s ongoing commitment to improving animal health, processing standards, and supply chain efficiency positions it well to continue its role as a global leader in animal product exports.

In the coming years, India’s focus on expanding its market reach, improving product quality, and enhancing compliance with international standards will be critical to sustaining growth in this vital sector.

Conclusion: A Leading Force in Global Animal Product Exports

India’s animal product exports in 2023-24 underscore the country’s growing significance in the global food supply chain. With buffalo meat leading the charge, India continues to meet the world’s demand for high-quality animal products at competitive prices. As global markets evolve, India is poised to maintain its position as a dominant force in the international animal product trade, with buffalo meat remaining at the forefront of its export success.