AZE.US
Prices for sacrificial animals are rising in Azerbaijan ahead of Kurban Bayrami, with sheep in Baku starting at around 300 manats and larger animals reaching 600-700 manats. Farmers say feed, transport and maintenance costs are pushing prices higher.
Prices for sacrificial animals in Azerbaijan are moving higher as Kurban Bayrami approaches, with markets from Baku to the regions seeing stronger demand and tighter supply.
In Baku, small livestock offered for sacrifice currently starts at about 300 manats, while larger sheep can cost 500, 600 or even 700 manats, depending on weight and condition.
Sellers say prices are largely tied to live weight. In the capital, the price for small livestock is mostly around 20-21 manats per kilogram of live weight, with some animals offered at 22-23 manats.
Very young lambs are generally not considered suitable for sacrifice, traders said, which narrows the available selection to animals that meet the necessary age and weight requirements.
The price range is much higher for cattle. Larger animals are usually bought in shares by several families, with prices starting at around 2,000 manats and reaching 4,000-5,000 manats.
In Tovuz, prices are somewhat lower than in Baku. Local sellers say smaller animals can be found from about 250 manats, while stronger and heavier animals are offered at 350-400 manats. Some buyers are already reserving animals in advance, fearing that the choice may shrink closer to the holiday.
In Goychay, prices are closer to those seen in the capital. Farmers say another increase is likely as the holiday nears. Live weight is estimated at around 9-10 manats per kilogram in some cases, though the final price depends on the individual animal. A sheep weighing about 30 kilograms may cost around 400 manats.
Farmers link the rise to higher feed prices, transport costs and the overall cost of keeping livestock. Compared with last year, prices have increased by roughly 0.5 to 2 manats per kilogram of live weight, according to market participants.
Buyers are being advised to pay attention not only to price, but also to the animal’s age, health and whether it has passed veterinary inspection. Ahead of the holiday, those details may matter more than a small difference in cost.
AZE.US