Ministry ensures ample supply of sacrificial animals at markets

Livestock traders have confirmed their commitment to the official prices in selling animals.

The Ministry of Economy has assured people of the availability of sacrificial animals in markets in huge numbers across the country despite a recent ban on the import of livestock from some countries.
Dr Hashim Al Nuaimi, director of the consumer protection department at the Ministry of Economy, said over the recent days, the ministry has intensified the import of goats, sheep, and cows to meet the high demand for sacrificial animals during Eid Al Adha.
"The recent ban on the import of livestock from certain countries has not caused significant impact on the availability of sacrificial animals in the country because the UAE is one of the most important markets in the region and large numbers of sacrificial animals are always imported into the country ahead of Eid Al Adha," said Al Nuaimi. 
"We have made the necessary arrangements to ensure that sacrificial animals are available for customers in all markets across the UAE and at reasonable prices. All livestock markets are ready for customers and we have coordinated with authorities from the ministry of interior to ensure smooth movement of traffic on roads near and heading to livestock markets."
He also assured residents of the stable prices of animals during Eid holidays stressing that inspectors were closely monitoring the markets. 
"The official prices for sacrificial animals including goats, sheep, and cows, range from Dh500 to Dh2,800 depending on the origin, weight, and age of the animal, which is relatively fair," said Al Nuaimi.
He noted that livestock traders have confirmed their commitment to the official prices in selling animals and would be issuing out invoices to customers.
The official also warned traders against selling animals outside the licensed livestock markets and not issuing out invoices to customers, stressing that those caught violating the rule may face fines of up to Dh100,000 according to the Consumer Protection Law. The authorities also urged people to slaughter sacrificial animals only from the municipal abattoirs for hygiene purposes and to keep the city clean.

Half price

Al Nuaimi said all major cooperative markets across the Emirates have already begun implementing their agreement with the ministry to offer discounts of up to 50 per cent on 2,500 items during Eid Al Adha holidays.
The discount covers items including rice, cooking oil, milk, juices, frozen meat, frozen poultry, vegetables, fruits, sugar, flour, pasta, sweets, and chocolates. The discount was intended to provide consumers with essential food products at cheap prices during the forthcoming Eid holidays. 
ismail@khaleejtimes.com
 

• UAE
• Abu Dhabi

Ismail Sebugwaawo

ismail@khaleejtimes.com