Soaring livestock prices hit consumers hard as Eidul Azha markets open across Pakistan

Cattle markets have been set up in major cities and smaller towns, where traders have established temporary camps alongside their animals

LAHORE: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-May 18^th, 2026) As cattle markets become active across Pakistan ahead of Eidul Azha, consumers are facing severe financial pressure due to a sharp rise in livestock prices driven by inflation and increased input costs.

Cattle markets have been set up in major cities and smaller towns, where traders have established temporary camps alongside their animals.

A large number of citizens are visiting these markets daily in search of sacrificial animals, but many are returning disappointed due to record-high prices.

This year, inflation has significantly pushed up the cost of sacrificial animals. A medium-sized goat that was previously available for around Rs50,000 is now being sold for over Rs100,000 in many markets. Prices of larger animals have also surged, placing them beyond the reach of many middle- and lower-income households.

The consumers complain that traders are demanding excessive rates, making it increasingly difficult for families to fulfill the religious obligation of Qurbani. Many have urged authorities to intervene and regulate prices to prevent artificial inflation in livestock markets.

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On the other hand, traders argue that rising costs of fodder, transportation, animal care, and market setup have forced them to increase prices. They maintain that the price hike reflects higher input expenses rather than profiteering.

Despite the high prices, markets remain crowded as Eid approaches, though buying activity is slower compared to previous years. Many families are either delaying purchases or considering joint sacrifices due to budget constraints.

The officials say district administrations have been instructed to monitor markets and ensure smooth operations, while basic facilities such as security, water supply, parking, and traffic management have been arranged for public convenience.

The livestock experts note that while demand remains strong due to the religious significance of Eid-ul-Adha, the impact of inflation is clearly visible, with consumers bearing the brunt of rising costs across the country’s cattle markets.