Meat prices have surged in major cities across Pakistan, defying expectations of a slowdown despite reduced export demand linked to Middle East tensions.
In Karachi, mutton prices have climbed sharply, touching Rs2,700 per kilogram — an increase of up to Rs300 in recent weeks. Veal with bones is currently selling between Rs1,400 and Rs1,500 per kg, while boneless veal has reached around Rs1,800 per kg. Beef (cow meat) prices have also risen, ranging from Rs1,350 to Rs1,500 per kg after fresh market increases.
Lahore markets are witnessing even steeper rates. Mutton is being sold between Rs2,800 and Rs3,200 per kilogram, while beef prices vary from Rs1,200 to Rs1,600 per kg depending on locality and quality, highlighting strong inflationary pressure in the meat sector.
Retail prices in several markets now exceed the official rates notified earlier by city authorities, with many shopkeepers reportedly ignoring government price lists or failing to display them altogether.
Traders link the spike primarily to higher diesel and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) costs, which have pushed up transportation, slaughtering, and storage expenses. Market participants also point to a shortage of livestock — particularly goats — as supply struggles to keep pace with demand.
Consumption has remained strong following Eid-ul-Fitr and continues to be supported by the ongoing wedding season, keeping demand elevated despite economic pressures.
Industry representatives note that exports make up only a limited share of overall meat consumption, suggesting domestic supply constraints — rather than foreign demand — are driving the current price surge.
Analysts warn that persistently high meat prices could translate into more expensive sacrificial animals ahead of Eid-ul-Adha if supply conditions fail to improve. Concerns are also growing over the slaughter of female livestock, a practice that may threaten long-term herd growth and future food security.
With food inflation expected to remain under pressure in the coming months, consumers across Pakistan are likely to face continued increases in meat prices.
