Mali may ban live livestock exports for six months amid rising meat prices

The government of Mali is considering temporarily suspending live livestock exports for up to six months, with the possibility of extending the restrictions. The proposal was discussed on October 19 during a meeting between the Ministry of Industry and Trade and representatives of the livestock and meat industries. The main objective of the potential ban is to increase livestock supplies on the domestic market and curb rising meat prices. A final decision on the restrictions has not yet been made.

According to the ministry, the average price of bone-in meat in Mali increased by 9.1% between late April and early October 2026, from CFA 3,211 to CFA 3,502/kg. In the capital, Bamako, prices reached CFA 4,300–4,500/kg, compared with CFA 3,800–4,000/kg in April. Meanwhile, boneless meat was selling for approximately CFA 5,000/kg. The main factors behind the price increase include high production and transportation costs, disruptions to livestock supplies, and rising feed prices, particularly oilseed meals and cakes.

The potential export restriction would form part of a broader program aimed at stabilizing the domestic meat market. The authorities also plan to gradually reopen livestock markets in several regions, address transportation bottlenecks and expand fodder production. Improved livestock availability for local processors and traders is expected to help contain further increases in meat prices. Under the preliminary proposal, export restrictions could be lifted once domestic prices stabilize.

However, the potential ban could significantly affect Mali’s foreign trade. According to Trade Map, the average annual value of live cattle exports reached $93.2 mln in 2020–2024, while exports of live sheep and goats generated another $64.6 mln. Thus, the total value of live livestock exports averaged $157.8 mln annually. A temporary suspension of shipments could reduce revenues for livestock producers, exporters and transport companies, although actual losses would depend on the duration of the restrictions.

Senegal, Guinea and Côte d’Ivoire, which remain the main buyers of live livestock from Mali, could be the most affected by the potential ban. In 2024, these three countries accounted for approximately 99% of the value of Mali’s live cattle exports and nearly 95% of its sheep and goat shipments. If trade is suspended, importers will have to seek alternative suppliers, potentially creating additional price pressure on regional meat markets. As a result, efforts to stabilize domestic prices in Mali could also disrupt livestock supplies to neighboring West African countries.

Tags: export, prices, meat, Beef cattle, Mali