Lead up to Ramadan
Meat prices in Karbala’s Tuwairij reach record highs
Karbala, Tuwairij — The meat markets in Tuwairij, Karbala, are experiencing a significant price surge, with mutton costs now exceeding 21,000 Iraqi Dinars ($14) per kilogram. Local butchers attribute this increase primarily to a shortage of Iraqi livestock, which has led to a drop in purchasing as many families find it challenging to adjust to the rising prices.
Butchers are warning that mutton prices could soar to 30,000 Iraqi Dinars per kilogram during Ramadan if the current shortage in supply persists.
Samr Amer, a local butcher interviewed by 964media, highlighted various factors contributing to the hike in meat prices. These include the Ministry of Agriculture’s insufficient support for farmers and livestock breeders, declining water levels, shrinking areas for fodder cultivation, and a significant increase in fodder prices from 250,000 to 650,000 ($430) Iraqi Dinars per ton.
The transformation of agricultural lands into residential areas and the shift of many breeders to alternative professions have further impacted livestock production negatively. Additionally, the market is flooded with imported livestock, predominantly of Indian origin, rather than locally sourced Iraqi meat.
With the price of mutton currently at 22,000 Iraqi Dinars per kilogram, Amer anticipates it might reach 30,000 during Ramadan due to heightened demand. For context, the price of veal is presently between 16,000 to 17,000 Iraqi Dinars, compared to the average mutton prices of around 12,000 Iraqi Dinars in previous years.
Abu Kadhım, a Tuwairij resident, expressed to 964media that the price increase has compelled him to reduce his meat purchases, considering alternatives like chicken over red meat for his family during Ramadan.