Meat prices rise in Karachi amid Iran-US tensions

Meat prices in Karachi have increased a lot, even though people expected them to go down due to lower exports linked to tensions between the US and Iran.

Shopkeepers have raised the prices of beef and mutton by Rs100 to Rs300 per kilogram in many areas. Mutton is now being sold for as high as Rs2,700 per kg, which is about Rs300 more than before.

These prices are much higher than the official rates set by the Karachi commissioner on February 16. According to the official list, mutton should be Rs2,200 per kg, while beef and veal prices were also lower. However, most markets are not following these rates, and many दुकानदार have not even displayed the official price lists.

Currently, veal with bones is being sold between Rs1,400 and Rs1,500 per kg, while boneless veal has reached Rs1,800 per kg. Beef with bones is now priced between Rs1,350 and Rs1,500 per kg, showing a clear increase.

Traders increased prices in two stages — first before Ramazan and then again before Eidul Fitr. Demand for meat usually rises before Eid, and it is expected to stay high as the wedding season begins after the festival.

Sellers say the price hike is due to higher fuel and energy costs, especially diesel and LPG. Some also say that exports are still continuing through air cargo and that there is a shortage of animals, especially goats, in local markets.

With Eidul Azha expected in the last week of May, the increase in meat prices may also make sacrificial animals more expensive. However, traders believe that if exports slow down further, prices may become stable or even decrease.

People are already facing financial pressure due to rising transport and food costs, which may affect their ability to buy sacrificial animals. Money sent by overseas Pakistanis could also influence the market.

According to official data, meat exports during the first eight months of the fiscal year 2025-26 reached 83,321 tonnes worth $370 million, compared to 78,883 tonnes worth $338 million during the same period last year.

Shakir Gujjar said that exports only make up a small part of total meat use in Pakistan. He added that the slaughter of young calves and female animals is causing a shortage of livestock. He warned that if this continues, it could harm the country’s dairy and beef industry, and he urged the government to take action and support farmers.