Nepal to Export Processed Buffalo Meat worth USD 1.5 Billion to China Annually

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EDUCAST, Private sector stakeholders of Nepal and China signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Monday to export processed buffalo meat worth USD 1.5 billion annually to China.

The Himalayan Food International of Nepal and China’s Shanghai Ziyan Food Company Limited signed the MoU to this effect amid a programme on Monday.

As per the agreement, Himalayan Food International will export 2.7 million metric tons of processed meat annually in the first phase. The MoU also outlines plans to build a fully automated animal slaughterhouse within the next six months.

This export initiative follows the protocol signed between Nepal and China during Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s recent visit to China, which aimed to facilitate the processed buffalo meat trade.

Established in 2011, Himalayan Food International specializes in meat export, while Shanghai Ziyan Food Company operates more than 6,000 outlets across China. Shanghai Ziyan Food Company has also expressed interest in investing Rs 20 billion in Nepal and providing technical assistance for buffalo husbandry, said Dr. Navin Kumar Sharma, chairperson of the Animal Slaughter House Entrepreneurs Association. Dr Sharma noted that this collaboration would benefit Nepali youths already engaged in or aspiring to join the animal husbandry sector.

Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development Ramnath Adhikari reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to exporting buffalo meat that meets Chinese government standards.

“We are working to ensure quality production and export of Nepali products,” Minister Adhikari said, adding that the government would effectively implement the Animal Slaughterhouse and Meat Inspection Act. He also pledged to introduce necessary laws and policies to promote animal husbandry in Nepal.

Similarly, Minister for Land Management, Cooperatives, and Poverty Alleviation Balaram Adhikari stated that the agreement would significantly contribute to job creation and economic growth. He recommended identifying suitable areas for buffalo rearing and starting the venture with a relatively low investment.

Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song expressed satisfaction over the implementation of the agreement, which aligns with the protocol signed during PM Oli’s visit to China.

Meanwhile, Dr. Umesh Dahal, director general of the Department of Livestock Services, shared that commercial buffalo rearing is currently being conducted in 30 local levels to prevent meat shortages. — RSS