India buffalo meat exports reach $5.1 billion milestone

India's buffalo meat exports, also known as carabeef, reached $5.1 billion in the 2025-26 fiscal year, marking a 25.6% growth. This milestone represents the first time the sector has crossed the $5 billion threshold. Projections suggest exports could reach $6 billion in the 2026-27 fiscal year, following a 66.6% year-on-year increase to nearly $1.5 billion during the April–June 2026 quarter.

Growth has been driven by both increased volume and higher value realization per tonne. The average export value per tonne rose from $3,236 in 2024-25 to $4,392 during the first quarter of 2026. This increase is attributed to efforts to position Indian buffalo meat as a premium global brand rather than a low-cost alternative to cattle beef.

To maintain these standards, the government mandates that exports only occur from plants registered by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). These facilities must meet strict safety, hygiene, and infrastructure requirements. India currently ranks as the world's third-largest bovine meat exporter, trailing Brazil and Australia.