Steady exports expected for Indian buffalo beef in 2026

Beef (primarily carabeef, meat derived from Asian domestic water buffalo) production in India in 2026 is expected to be driven by domestic needs while export demand is likely to take a back seat, projected the USDA office in New Delhi. 2026 beef production is forecast at 4.7 million metric tons, up one percent from 4.6 million in 2025. 2026 beef exports are forecast to reach 1.55 million tons, up by one percent over 2025.

The USDA office says that expectations of steady exports to Malaysia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia, as well as sluggish exports to Indonesia, Vietnam, and Iraq, are behind the weak export growth forecast.

Domestic consumption is forecast at 3.2 million tons, up two percent over 2025. A growing population, stable and low inflation, rising household income, and large supply of slaughter-ready cattle are driving production and consumption growth.

India’s cattle herd is estimated at 307.5 million head at the beginning of 2026.