The Rising Importance of Animal Products in India’s Economy and Global Trade

Animal products play a pivotal role in India’s socio-economic landscape, contributing significantly to the agriculture sector and generating employment in rural areas. With an expansive and growing industry, India is a global leader in the production of key animal products like milk, meat, eggs, and honey. The export of these products has become a crucial aspect of India’s economy, driving both domestic growth and international trade relationships.

India’s Leadership in Animal Product Production

India has firmly established itself as a global powerhouse in animal product production, particularly in milk, where it is the largest producer in the world, contributing 24% of the total global milk production in 2022. This success is driven by India’s vast population of milch animals, including 109.85 million buffaloes, 148.88 million goats, and 74.26 million sheep (as of 2019). Among these, the sheep population has seen the highest growth rate (14.13%), followed by goats (10.14%), with buffaloes experiencing steady growth of 1.06%.

In addition to dairy, India is also a significant player in global egg production, accounting for approximately 7.25% of the global supply in 2021. This makes India a critical source of animal-derived products, both domestically and for global markets.

India’s Flourishing Animal Products Export Market

India’s animal products export sector has experienced remarkable growth, reflecting the country’s increasing prominence in the global food trade. In 2023-24, India’s total exports of animal products were valued at Rs. 37,665.51 Crores (approximately USD 4.54 billion). A major portion of this export is dominated by buffalo meat, which accounted for over 82% of total animal product exports in 2023-24. The country’s buffalo meat exports alone were valued at Rs. 31,010.10 Crores (USD 3.74 billion).

Other key exports include sheep and goat meat (Rs. 643.55 Crores or USD 77.68 million), poultry products (Rs. 1,530.20 Crores or USD 184.58 million), dairy products (Rs. 2,260.94 Crores or USD 272.64 million), and natural honey (Rs. 1,470.84 Crores or USD 177.52 million). Processed meat and animal casings also contribute to the export basket, showing the diversification and strength of India’s animal product export sector.

Key Markets for Indian Animal Products

India’s primary export markets for buffalo meat and other animal products are located in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and North Africa. The major buyers of Indian buffalo meat include Malaysia, Vietnam, Egypt, Indonesia, and the UAE. The increasing demand for Indian buffalo meat has been a key driver of the sector’s growth, with countries seeking affordable and high-quality meat products.

The rapid expansion of India’s meat export industry reflects not only the quality of the products but also the growing reputation of Indian animal products in international markets. Buffalo meat, in particular, has become a staple in many countries, known for its lean quality and nutritional benefits. This has spurred a surge in exports, leading to a sharp rise in India’s share of the global meat trade.

The Future of India’s Animal Products Sector

India’s animal products export industry is poised for further growth. As global demand for halal-certified meats and other animal products continues to rise, India’s ability to supply these markets with high-quality, affordable products positions it as a key player on the international stage. Moreover, with the growing trend of animal welfare and sustainable practices, India’s ability to adapt to these emerging trends will likely enhance its competitiveness.

With a robust and expanding market for dairy, meat, eggs, and honey, India is set to continue making significant strides in the global animal products sector. The country’s diverse range of animal-based exports, coupled with its leadership in production, makes it an essential part of the global food supply chain.

Conclusion

India’s dominance in the global animal products market, particularly in buffalo meat, is a testament to the country’s growing agricultural prowess. The export of animal products, from milk and eggs to meat and honey, plays an increasingly vital role in India’s economic development. As demand for these products rises worldwide, India’s animal products sector will continue to be a significant contributor to both national income and global trade. The future looks bright for India’s animal products industry, with strong growth prospects and continued export success.