India to become largest beef exporter

Export growth is largely on account of consistent demand from price sensitive importers,primarily in Vietnam and Southeast Asia,Middle East and Africa. As a result,the number of export production units is increasing to meet growing export demand for low-cost Indian buffalo meat,it added.

According to USDA,India8217;s export of buffalo meat is estimated to rise by 25 per cent to 1.52 million tonnes in 2012 from 1.22 million tonnes in 2011.

However,the dreaded Foot and Mouth Disease FMD in cattle could pose problems in the country8217;s march towards the world8217;s leading buffalo meat supplier,USDA said.

8220;While there are rumours of new market openings in Eastern Europe and Indonesia,no known trade has yet occurred in these regions and India8217;s FMD status makes this seem unlikely,8221; it added.

Indian exporters are operating voluntary vaccination programs to combat FMD and the government of India has launched a Rs 4,000 crore programme to tackle the disease.

While these programs are positive steps,the reality of FMD remains a significant hurdle for expanding market access,USDA said.