Budget 2026–27: Export Push Key for Livestock Growth
The Union Budget 2026–27 is expected to play an important role in shaping the next phase of growth for India’s livestock sector. As the country strengthens its presence in global markets for buffalo meat and seafood, the industry is hoping to see a stronger focus on export support. This includes easier access to international markets, practical quality and certification systems aligned with global standards, and branding support for high-value markets such as the US, EU and ASEAN. Export-linked incentives, freight support and government-backed market development initiatives could go a long way in improving price realisation for farmers and producer cooperatives.
To sustain this export push, continued support under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana remains essential. Higher allocations for hatcheries, seed production, technology-driven farming and climate-resilient aquaculture would help scale operations while maintaining quality and supply stability.
Cost pressures also remain a key concern. Building on the reduction in Basic Customs Duty on key aquaculture inputs in the previous Budget, the industry is expecting further duty relief on pond and hatchery equipment, quality feed inputs, and cold-chain and processing infrastructure, along with better GST rationalisation. These steps would help lower production costs and strengthen the sector’s long-term competitiveness.
Overall, Budget 2026–27 presents a timely opportunity to align India’s livestock and aquaculture sectors with global market realities. A balanced mix of export facilitation, targeted incentives, continued scheme support and cost rationalisation can strengthen competitiveness while ensuring better price realisation at the farm and cooperative level. If policy intent translates into practical execution, the Budget can help position India as a reliable, value-driven supplier of livestock and seafood products in high-value global markets, while building long-term resilience across the production ecosystem.
Source : Dairynews7x7 Jan 12th 2026 Press Release on quote By- Divya Kumar Gulati, Chairman of CLFMA of India