A five-billion dollar, and growing, success story

India's buffalo meat export sector is experiencing a significant surge, with shipments reaching $5.1 billion in the fiscal year 2025-26, marking a 66.6% increase from the previous year. This growth is attributed to improved product quality and safety standards, as well as the government's focus on making Indian buffalo meat a global brand.

In 2014-15, exports were valued at $4.8 billion, with an average unit value of $3,240 per tonne. However, this has since increased to $4,392 per tonne in the current fiscal year. The success of this industry not only boosts India's position as the world's third-largest bovine meat exporter but also supports the country's dairy economy by providing a market for unproductive animals.