The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources (MAFWR) has announced the provision of 289,089 live animals in January and February. This effort aims to meet the increasing demand for meat. The figures include 21,876 cows and 267,213 sheep and goats.
Khalfan bin Matar al Sharji, Director General of Animal Wealth at MAFWR, confirmed that the ministry is working closely with livestock importers to guarantee a continuous supply of live animals and red meat. According to Sharji, the ministry has streamlined the import process, making it easier for importers to meet market needs. To support this, the ministry has issued 129 import permits.
During the first two months of the year, the total number of livestock approved for import was 359,150. Of these, 332,700 were goats and sheep, while 26,450 were cows. This large number of imports highlights the commitment to maintaining a stable meat supply.
As Ramadan approaches and Eid al-Fitr follows shortly after, the ministry expects even higher demand for livestock. The importation efforts are set to increase accordingly. Sharji emphasized that these initiatives aim to meet the peak market needs during this busy season.
In addition to ensuring a steady supply, the ministry is also prioritizing animal health. Veterinary staff at quarantine facilities are conducting thorough health checks on all imported animals. This is essential for preventing the spread of infectious or epidemic diseases in the country. Maintaining high animal health standards helps to protect the local population from potential risks.
These measures are part of the ministry’s ongoing efforts to support the local meat market and protect public health. By securing the importation of livestock and ensuring health checks, MAFWR is committed to maintaining both supply and safety. As the demand continues to rise, the ministry is ready to take further actions to support the local market.
With Ramadan and Eid approaching, MAFWR’s ongoing work will play a critical role in stabilizing the meat supply.
