Kathmandu: Nepal has entered into a significant agreement with China’s private sector to export processed buffalo meat valued at USD 1.5 billion annually. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between Nepal's Himalayan Food International and China's Shanghai Ziyan Food Company Limited in a formal event on Monday.

As per the agreement, Nepal will export 2.7 million metric tonnes of buffalo meat annually in the initial phase. To facilitate this, a fully automated animal slaughterhouse is set to be constructed within six months through collaboration with Himalayan Food International.

The agreement follows the recent protocol signed during former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's official visit to China, which paved the way for Nepal's meat export to its northern neighbor.

Himalayan Food International, established in 2011 for processed meat export, is partnering with Shanghai Ziyan Food Company, which operates over 6,000 outlets across China. Additionally, Shanghai Ziyan has expressed interest in investing Rs 20 billion in Nepal and providing technical support for buffalo husbandry.

Dr. Navin Kumar Sharma, Chairperson of the Animal Slaughter House Entrepreneurs Association, emphasized that this collaboration would benefit Nepali youths engaged in animal husbandry or those looking to enter the sector.

Government Endorsement
Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development Ramnath Adhikari reiterated Nepal’s commitment to adhering to Chinese standards for meat export. "We aim to produce and export high-quality buffalo meat by ensuring robust quality control mechanisms," he said. Minister Adhikari also pledged to effectively implement the Animal Slaughterhouse and Meat Inspection Act while strengthening policies to promote animal husbandry.

Minister for Land Management, Cooperatives, and Poverty Alleviation Balaram Adhikari highlighted the agreement's potential for job creation and economic growth. He suggested identifying suitable regions for buffalo rearing to initiate the venture with minimal investment.

Chinese Partnership and Support
Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Chen Song, welcomed the agreement’s implementation, noting its alignment with commitments made during PM Oli's visit to China.

Dr. Umesh Dahal, Director General at the Department of Livestock Services, shared that commercial buffalo farming is already operational in 30 local levels across Nepal to ensure a stable meat supply.

The collaboration is expected to boost Nepal’s economy, create employment opportunities, and open new avenues for farmers and entrepreneurs involved in livestock and meat production.