HS Code:
The Buffalo category, often classified under HS Code 0102.21 (live pure-bred breeding buffaloes) and related codes for meat (0201/0202) and dairy products, encompasses trade in live buffaloes, buffalo meat (primarily water buffalo), and derived products such as leather and dairy. Buffaloes are significant in agricultural economies, particularly in Asia, where they are used for milk production (e.g., mozzarella cheese in Italy), meat, and as draft animals. Global trade in this category is driven by demand for buffalo meat in Middle Eastern and Asian markets, and dairy products in Europe and North America. Trade patterns are influenced by cultural dietary preferences, disease control measures (like foot-and-mouth disease restrictions), and regional production capacities.
Total Trade Volume
USD 2.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
USD 1.2 billion
48% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 400 million
16% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 300 million
12% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 200 million
8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 150 million
6% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
12.5%
Highest Rate
35% (applied by certain EU countries on non-preferential imports)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like ASEAN-India FTA for buffalo meat)
Rising demand for buffalo meat in Middle Eastern countries
Increased export opportunities for India and Pakistan, driving production growth
2021-2022
Growing popularity of buffalo milk products in Europe
Boost in Italian exports of mozzarella di bufala, with potential supply chain expansions
2020-2022
Stricter disease control regulations
Temporary trade disruptions for live buffaloes and meat from affected regions
2019-2022
India reported a 15% increase in buffalo meat exports, driven by demand from Saudi Arabia and UAE, supported by improved cold chain logistics.
March 2023
Strengthens India's position as the global leader in buffalo meat exports, potentially leading to higher farmer incomes.
The European Union tightened import regulations on buffalo products from regions with recent foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks.
January 2023
Temporary export bans for some Asian countries, necessitating investment in disease-free zones.
A new bilateral agreement includes provisions for buffalo meat exports to China, opening a massive market for Pakistani producers.
October 2022
Expected to boost Pakistanโs trade volume by 10-15% over the next two years.