A livestock shortage has prompted the Turkish government to import live cattle.

According to industry experts, the country currently has 11.8 million head of cattle. However, the annual slaughter rate is not meeting demand for beef consumption. Beef and mutton prices are expensive at EUR 12-15 per kilo. It is hoped that the cattle imports could help to reduce meat prices by 30-40%. It is believed 80,000 tonnes will initially be imported, although tests will need to be in place before any livestock is shipped into the country.

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