Eidul Adha Update: Qurbani Janwar Average Price in Karachi Hits New High

As Eidul Adha approaches, Karachi’s cattle markets are witnessing noticeably fewer buyers this year as prices of sacrificial animals have surged sharply, driven by inflation, rising transportation costs, and expensive livestock feed.

The prices of goats, cows and bulls have risen by 50-70% from last year, creating financial hardship for traders and families intending to do Qurbani, it has been reported.

Thousands of cattle have arrived from all over the country at major markets such as Sohrab Goth cattle market and Northern Bypass livestock areas. But the heavy stock has not been able to attract many customers, traders say.

Animal Prices Reach Record Levels

According to market estimates:

• Goats: PKR 40,000 – 60,000 for standard animals
• Better quality goats: PKR 60,000 – 70,000
• Premium goats: PKR 150,000 – 250,000+
• Cows/Bulls: PKR 200,000 – 350,000 for average animals
• Premium breeds: PKR 500,000 – 2 million+
• Cow share (Qurbani): PKR 25,000 – 35,000 per share depending on farm services

The price of feed, fuel and transport have risen, forcing traders to raise prices, while buyers contend that inflation has made it difficult for many middle-class families to afford sacrificing animals.

Low Buyer Turnout Dampens Market Activity

Cattle traders say sales are weak at the markets in Karachi despite the thousands of animals arriving. A lot of visitors are just doing a walk-through and not buying anything.

One livestock trader in Sohrab Goth said the interest was there but few people were buying livestock at the market because many families were waiting for prices to drop nearer Eid.

Families Consider Alternatives

High prices have led to a rethinking of traditional buying habits among many Karachiites. Some families are opting for:

• Smaller or local breed animals
• Collective Qurbani (shares in cows)
• Delayed purchases closer to Eid

There are also private livestock farms that are attracting private buyers for their healthier and disease-free animals, although the costs will be considerably higher than what they can find in the open market.

As the Eidul Adha approaches, it seems market anticipations are still being driven by price sensitivity among buyers. If prices don’t level off, analysts say more families this year may opt for shared sacrifice or a smaller animal.