Indian exporters have demonstrated strong capabilities in meeting global standards

Meat and poultry products form an important segment of India’s food industry and play a significant role in the country’s economy. India is among the world’s largest producers of meat and poultry, supported by a diverse product base that caters to both domestic consumption and international markets. In FY 2023–24, India’s total exports of animal products—including meat, poultry, and allied items—were valued at US$ 4,543.52 million, underscoring the sector’s importance in international markets. Buffalo meat (carabeef) continues to dominate India’s export basket, accounting for over 82% of total export value at US$ 3,740.53 million, positioning India among the world’s leading exporters in this category.

This export momentum is closely linked to rising domestic production. India’s meat output increased from approximately 8.6 million tonnes in 2019–20 to over 10.25 million tonnes in 2023–24, reflecting sustained growth in livestock availability, processing capacity, and export-oriented infrastructure.

Beyond buffalo meat, India’s export portfolio has diversified steadily. Poultry products contributed US$ 184.58 million, animal casings US$ 48.12 million, alongside processed meat and smaller volumes of sheep and goat meat—highlighting the sector’s widening product mix. Key destination markets such as Vietnam, Malaysia, Egypt, the UAE, and Iraq continue to drive demand, attracted by India’s ability to offer competitively priced, quality-assured meat products at scale.

From the perspective of global importers, India’s role as a sourcing hub is becoming increasingly strategic. Hani Bawa, Managing Director, Bawa Food Trading Co. WLL, Bahrain, notes:

“India represents a strategically important and increasingly reliable sourcing and processing hub for the global meat industry. The country combines large-scale livestock availability with a rapidly modernising processing sector aligned with international food safety, quality, and Halal compliance requirements.”

He adds that India’s adherence to global certifications is particularly critical for Middle Eastern markets:

“Indian exporters have demonstrated strong capabilities in meeting Halal certification, HACCP, ISO, and export market-specific regulations. Combined with competitive costs, a skilled workforce, and growing investment in cold-chain and export infrastructure, India offers consistent and scalable supply. As an importer serving Bahrain and the wider GCC, we view India as a long-term sourcing partner capable of delivering quality, traceability, and supply continuity.”

With continued investments in cold-chain infrastructure, processing modernisation, and market diversification, India’s meat export sector is well positioned to sustain growth and deepen its footprint across global protein markets.

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