Mutton Exports From Balkh to Uzbekistan and Tajikistan Increase

Officials at the Balkh State Slaughterhouse say exports of mutton to Uzbekistan and Tajikistan from the province began nearly two months ago.

They say meat from around 1,000 sheep is now exported daily to Uzbekistan and Tajikistan after slaughter and the completion of health inspections.

Abdul Qahar Ahmadi, head of the Balkh State Slaughterhouse, said: “On average, we slaughter 1,000 animals in a 24-hour period. Nearly 30,000 animals are processed in a month, and around 40,000 in 40 days before being exported abroad.”

Some veterinarians emphasize the importance of following established standards during the slaughter process.

They say that, in line with the policies and guidelines of the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock, the slaughter of ewes and breeds at risk of decline or extinction is prohibited to help preserve livestock populations.

Veterinarian Gulbadin Tegin said: “We do not allow the slaughter of animals that are sick. Likewise, animals that are too thin are not permitted for slaughter. In addition, we do not allow the slaughter of animals whose weight is below the minimum specified in the contract.”

Since exports began, the number of employees at the Balkh State Slaughterhouse has also doubled.

Slaughterhouse officials say nearly 200 people, most of them young, are now employed in different sections of the facility.

Slaughterhouse employee Abdul Mateen said: “If exports from the Balkh State Slaughterhouse continue and increase, more job opportunities will be created for us young people.”

It is worth noting that officials from the Balkh Department of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock had previously announced plans to expand the livestock sector in the province.

The department said it is working with supporting organizations to increase sheep production and strengthen the livestock industry in order to expand exports of livestock products.