Why Goat Meat Prices Are Rising In Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu Valley is seeing a sharp rise in goat meat prices this week as bird flu concerns have changed consumer buying habits, with many people choosing mutton over chicken. The price has reached around Rs. 1,650 to Rs. 1,700 per kg in several areas, mainly because of increased demand, limited supply, higher live goat costs, and the government’s restriction on live goat imports from India over PPR disease concerns.

Meat sellers say live goats have become expensive, reaching nearly Rs. 900 to Rs 950 per kg, and extra costs for transport, slaughtering, cleaning, and shop operation have pushed retail prices higher. Some traders claim Kathmandu needs around 1,400 to 1,500 goats daily, but fewer animals are entering the market.

Goat farmers, however, disagree with traders’ claims and say the shortage narrative is being used to benefit middlemen. They argue that farmers are still receiving only around Rs. 600 per kg in villages, even though production costs have become much higher.

Bird flu fears have also affected the wider meat market, with around 650,000 chickens destroyed across Nepal to control the outbreak. Authorities say cases are decreasing in Kathmandu Valley, but some risk remains in parts of Kavrepalanchok, especially around Panauti and Banepa.