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India’s beef production in 2025 is forecast to reach 4.64 million metric tons (MMT), up slightly from 4.57 MMT in 2024. This growth is primarily attributed to the robust cattle inventory in the country, which is expected to reach 307.5 million head in 2025. The continued increase in beef production is driven by both domestic consumption and export demand, although export patterns are undergoing some shifts. Carabeef, the primary type of beef produced in India, remains the focus of both the Indian livestock industry and global markets.
Beef Production and Supply: The Role of India's Large Cattle Inventory
India has long been one of the largest beef producers in the world, and the country’s cattle inventory plays a pivotal role in sustaining its beef industry. The large cattle population in India is composed primarily of buffaloes (locally referred to as "carabao" or "carabuffalo"), which are the main source of beef production. The estimated 307.5 million head of cattle in 2025, including both dairy and beef-producing animals, provides the necessary supply to maintain the steady increase in beef production.
This inventory size supports the growth of carabeef production, which is expected to continue in 2025. The meat from water buffaloes, referred to as carabeef, accounts for nearly all of India’s beef production and export. Buffaloes are ideal for beef production because they are hardier than cattle and can be raised in diverse climatic conditions across India. They also have a faster rate of reproduction, which helps maintain consistent beef production.
The increased slaughter of buffaloes in 2025 is a direct result of the demand from both the domestic and international markets. As the cattle inventory grows, slaughter rates are expected to remain elevated, leading to a steady rise in beef production. The beef produced in India is primarily processed and exported as frozen carabeef, which remains an essential component of the country’s agricultural export portfolio.
Domestic Consumption and Export Demand
India’s beef production serves two main purposes: to meet the domestic demand for beef and to supply the international market, particularly the growing demand in countries such as Egypt, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. While domestic consumption has traditionally been a key driver of beef production, export demand plays a major role in shaping the industry’s growth in recent years.
Domestic Demand for Beef
India’s domestic beef consumption is largely driven by the country’s population of nearly 1.4 billion people, which includes diverse religious and cultural groups. While beef consumption is relatively low in some regions due to dietary restrictions, it remains significant in states like Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal, where beef is more commonly consumed. Additionally, the rising middle class and urbanization are contributing to a steady increase in domestic beef demand.
However, domestic consumption has not seen the same explosive growth as exports. A substantial portion of beef produced in India is directed toward export markets, particularly in countries where beef consumption is rising due to expanding populations or higher incomes. As a result, the trend in India’s beef industry has shifted toward prioritizing export markets, which generally offer higher returns due to the premium prices they are willing to pay for quality beef.
Export Demand: Shifting Trade Dynamics
India is the world’s largest exporter of beef, with carabeef forming the bulk of exports. In 2025, India’s carabeef export forecast is set at 1.58 MMT, virtually unchanged from 1.56 MMT in 2024. This steady export level highlights the country’s continuing role as a major player in the global beef market.
India’s beef exports are primarily targeted toward Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and African nations. Southeast Asian countries, especially Indonesia, have been historically important markets for Indian beef. However, export growth to Southeast Asia is expected to be weak in 2025. The slowing demand in Indonesia, coupled with increasing competition from other beef-exporting countries such as Brazil and Australia, is likely to impact India’s export volume to this region.
In contrast, markets in the Middle East, particularly Egypt, are expected to experience stronger demand for Indian carabeef. The Middle East has long been a key market for Indian beef, and trade relations with countries in this region are expected to remain stable, if not grow. Egypt, in particular, is projected to continue to play a critical role in India’s beef exports, driven by its large population and growing demand for affordable protein sources. Other countries in the region, such as Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates, are also expected to maintain their demand for Indian beef.
The diversification of export markets beyond Southeast Asia is a positive development for India’s beef industry. With shifting trade dynamics, India is expected to capitalize on demand in countries like Egypt, where there is an expanding middle class and increasing need for imported meat products. Indian carabeef is seen as an affordable and high-quality option for these markets, further strengthening India’s position in global beef trade.
Challenges in the Beef Sector
Despite the positive outlook for beef production and exports, several challenges could impact India’s livestock sector in 2025 and beyond. These challenges are primarily related to trade, environmental concerns, and the evolving landscape of consumer preferences.
Trade Barriers and Competitor Growth
India’s beef export industry faces stiff competition from other major beef exporters, such as Brazil, Argentina, and Australia. These countries are also looking to expand their presence in markets like the Middle East and Southeast Asia. While India’s low production costs and large cattle inventory provide it with a competitive edge, ongoing trade tensions, tariff barriers, and evolving international regulations could present hurdles for Indian beef exports.
Environmental and Sustainability Issues
Sustainability and environmental concerns are growing issues for the livestock sector worldwide, and India is no exception. The environmental footprint of beef production, particularly water usage, land degradation, and greenhouse gas emissions, has attracted increased scrutiny. As global consumer preferences shift toward more sustainable and ethically produced food, India’s beef sector may face additional pressure to adopt more sustainable farming practices.
Efforts to address environmental concerns in India’s livestock industry may be necessary for long-term growth, especially as consumers in developed markets become more discerning about the environmental impact of their food choices.
Religious and Cultural Sensitivities
Religious and cultural factors also influence the beef industry in India. Beef consumption is not universally accepted across all regions and religious communities, which impacts domestic demand. Furthermore, the export of beef has sometimes been subject to political and cultural sensitivity. Changes in government policies, particularly at the state level, could affect the beef industry. For example, some Indian states have imposed bans or restrictions on the slaughter of cows, which could restrict the availability of cattle for beef production in the future.
Looking Ahead: The Future of India’s Livestock and Beef Industry
India’s beef production is expected to continue growing in 2025, driven by a large cattle inventory and sustained export demand. The forecasted growth in carabeef exports, particularly to the Middle East, positions India as a key player in the global beef trade. However, challenges such as trade barriers, competition from other beef-exporting countries, and environmental concerns may pose risks to the sector.
To maintain its strong position in the global beef market, India will need to address these challenges while capitalizing on emerging opportunities in high-demand markets. Sustainable production practices, greater export diversification, and proactive policy support will be essential for India’s beef industry to remain competitive and continue to grow in the years to come. With the right strategies in place, India’s livestock sector can continue to thrive and meet the global demand for affordable, high-quality beef.