Tanzania’s meat export volumes rise by 5.75%

TANZANIA – Tanzania has seen its meat export volume grow by 5.75 percent this financial year, increasing from 9,326.3 tonnes to 9,863.41 tonnes, according to figures from the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries. 

This rise in both the quantity and value of exports is linked to government initiatives aimed at expanding foreign currency earnings through the livestock sector.

In a recent parliamentary session, Livestock and Fisheries Minister Dr. Ashatu Kijaji presented the US$205.7 million budget for the 2025/26 financial year.

At that point, the country had shipped 9,863.41 tonnes of meat, reaching nearly 90 percent of the annual goal of 10,971 tonnes.

The revenue generated from these exports totalled US$44.07 million, up from US$39.3 million during the same period in the previous financial year, showing a steady increase in foreign earnings. 

Goat meat accounted for the largest portion, with 6,380.63 tonnes exported, representing about 65 percent of total shipments.

Other exported meat included 2,104.85 tonnes of mutton, 1,150.54 tonnes of beef, 199.61 tonnes of chicken, and 27.83 tonnes of pork. 

The minister pointed to the government’s work in broadening access to international markets and strengthening trade agreements as key drivers behind this export growth.

Currently, Tanzanian meat products are being sent to 11 countries, including Bahrain, Comoros, Hong Kong, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Vietnam.

The Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, through the Meat Board, continues to play a role in organizing and facilitating these exports as part of efforts to increase the livestock sector’s economic input.

Meanwhile, sales of livestock at auctions within Tanzania have also shown an upward trend, with 3.41 million cattle and 3.33 million goats and sheep sold by April 2025, generating combined proceeds of about US$1.6 billion. 

This compares with 2.96 million cattle and 2.83 million goats and sheep sold in the same timeframe last year, which brought in roughly US$1.5 billion.

The rise in auction sales is connected to growing awareness among livestock owners about the benefits of selling animals at the right time to improve income and sustain herd health. 

Dr. Kijaji reaffirmed the government’s aim to develop the livestock industry as a critical component of the blue economy and support rural development efforts.

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