02.06.2026, 23:52
Meat Production in Kazakhstan Exceeded 338 Thousand Tons Since the Beginning of the Year
Growth in livestock numbers is contributing to higher volumes of livestock production across the country
Kazakhstan’s livestock sector continues to demonstrate positive growth. The country is seeing an increase in the number of major types of agricultural animals, which is contributing to the expansion of livestock production.
As of May 1, 2026, the cattle population reached 9.8 million head, which is 325.2 thousand more than during the same period last year. The sheep population totaled 23.5 million head, increasing by 363.1 thousand head. The number of horses rose by 339.8 thousand to 5.1 million head. Camel numbers reached 322 thousand head, up by 7.5 thousand year-on-year. Poultry numbers increased by 291.5 thousand and totaled 48.2 million birds.
The growth in livestock numbers is positively affecting production indicators in the sector. During January–April 2026, total meat production in carcass weight reached 338.2 thousand tons, which is 11 thousand tons higher than in the same period of 2025.
The largest increase was recorded in beef production, which reached 112.9 thousand tons, up by 6.5 thousand tons year-on-year. Lamb production totaled 34.7 thousand tons, increasing by 2.6 thousand tons. Horse meat production reached 39.8 thousand tons, which is 1.4 thousand tons higher than the previous year.
To support further industry development and increase production volumes, the preferential lending program “Zhailau” is being launched. The program is aimed at supporting pasture-based livestock farming and developing grazing infrastructure. Financing will be provided at an annual interest rate of 6% for up to 10 years.
The increase in production volumes reflects the stable development of the livestock sector, the strengthening of farms’ production capacity, and the availability of sufficient resources to meet domestic market demand.
As for the rise in lamb prices observed in April and May of this year, it was temporary and seasonal in nature. The main reason was the traditional increase in demand during preparations for and celebration of Eid al-Adha, which this year fell at the end of May.
According to the Bureau of National Statistics, the current average lamb price nationwide stands at 4,209 tenge per kilogram. At the same time, a decrease in procurement prices of approximately 200 tenge per kilogram has been recorded.
Therefore, the previously observed increase in prices is not related to a shortage of products. Current production indicators confirm the sustainable development of the industry and a sufficient supply of livestock products on the domestic market.
