Eid-ul-Adha, the Muslim festival of sacrifice, typically sees an annual increase in trade activity. However, this year, skyrocketing costs for sacrificial animals have made it difficult for many households to afford their yearly obligation, leading some to opt for shared sacrifices instead.
According to the Pakistan Tanners Association, approximately 6.8 million animals will be sacrificed in Pakistan this year. This includes 2.8 million cows, 3.3 million goats, 165,000 buffaloes, and 99,000 camels. The value of the skins from these sacrificial animals is estimated to be around Rs6 billion.
In Karachi, the average price for a cowhide ranges between Rs1,000 to Rs1,100, while in Punjab, the price is between Rs1,800 to Rs2,000. Goat hides are priced at Rs425 to Rs450 in Karachi and Rs450 to Rs500 in Punjab.
Sheep hides are set at Rs150 in Karachi and Rs200 in Punjab. Camel hides are priced between Rs450 to Rs500.
