Nepal signs MoU to export $1.5 billion worth of processed buffalo meat to China

KATHMANDU: A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed between Nepal and China’s private sector to export processed buffalo meat worth USD 1.5 billion annually. The agreement marks a major milestone in Nepal’s livestock industry, creating significant opportunities for farmers and boosting economic development.

The MoU was signed between Himalayan Food International of Nepal and Shanghai Ziyan Food Company Limited of China amid a formal program on Monday. As per the agreement, Himalayan Food International will export 2.7 million metric tonnes of processed buffalo meat annually in the first phase.

To meet the growing demand, a fully automated animal slaughterhouse will be constructed in collaboration with Himalayan Food International within the next six months, the agreement stated.

The protocol to facilitate Nepal’s buffalo meat export was previously signed during former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s official visit to China. The move is now gaining momentum through this agreement, which aims to strengthen bilateral trade ties.

Established in 2011, Himalayan Food International specializes in processed meat exports, while Shanghai Ziyan Food Company operates over 6,000 outlets across China. The Chinese firm has also expressed interest in investing Rs 20 billion in Nepal and providing technical assistance for buffalo husbandry, according to Dr. Navin Kumar Sharma, Chairperson of the Animal Slaughter House Entrepreneurs Association.

Dr. Sharma emphasized that the collaboration would benefit Nepali youth involved in animal husbandry by creating new opportunities and technical upskilling in livestock farming.

On the occasion, Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development Ramnath Adhikari reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to exporting buffalo meat in accordance with Chinese government standards. He underscored the government’s efforts to ensure quality production and export while pledging to effectively implement the Animal Slaughterhouse and Meat Inspection Act.

“We are striving to ensure the export of high-quality products and encourage farmers to engage in sustainable animal husbandry,” Minister Adhikari said.

Similarly, Minister for Land Management, Cooperatives, and Poverty Alleviation Balaram Adhikari highlighted that the agreement would contribute significantly to job creation and economic growth in Nepal. He suggested identifying viable regions for buffalo rearing to start the venture with manageable investments.

Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song expressed happiness over the agreement’s implementation, which stemmed from the protocol signed during Prime Minister Oli’s visit. He reiterated China’s commitment to supporting Nepal’s agricultural trade.

Meanwhile, Dr. Umesh Dahal, Director General of the Department of Livestock Services, shared that commercial buffalo rearing is already operational in 30 local levels across Nepal to ensure a sustainable supply of meat.

The MoU is expected to create a robust market for Nepali farmers, encourage youth participation in the livestock sector, and strengthen Nepal-China economic relations through large-scale trade and investment.

This landmark deal positions Nepal as a key player in the international processed meat market, bringing fresh momentum to the country’s agriculture and livestock industries.