Uzbekistan’s Beef Prices Surge, Ranking First in CIS

Uzbekistan ranks as the most expensive CIS country for beef, with prices reaching $8.1 per kilogram, placing it 91st globally. Neighboring countries offer lower prices, with the most expensive beef in the world found in Switzerland. Global meat prices rose by 18% due to high demand, and inflation in Uzbekistan also reflects increasing food costs.

As of March 2025, Uzbekistan has emerged as the leading nation in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) with the highest beef prices, positioning itself 91st in the global marketplace, according to Ranking.kz and the international service Numbeo. The price of a kilogram of beef tenderloin in Uzbekistan has reached $8.1, surpassing nearby countries such as Kazakhstan, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, where prices are slightly above $7.

Globally, Switzerland commands the highest beef prices at $44.3 per kilogram, followed by Iceland at $38.7. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) reports a significant increase in global meat prices, which rose by 18% in February 2025 compared to the previous year. This surge in prices is primarily driven by a sustained high demand for beef.

In Uzbekistan, the price of meat products has escalated by 14.4% over the last year, with beef on the bone experiencing an 18.5% increase and lamb prices rising by 19.4%. Conversely, poultry meat has become 0.8% cheaper during the same period.

The consumer price index (CPI) in Uzbekistan saw a rise of 0.54% in February 2025, marking it the highest monthly inflation rate since 2023. Food prices overall went up by 0.6% in February and 1.4% since the beginning of the year, contributing to an annual food inflation rate of 2.9%, the lowest observed in five years, while meat prices specifically increased by 2.1%.

Uzbekistan currently holds the highest beef prices among CIS countries, ranking 91st globally for beef costs. The rising prices are linked to an increase in global meat demand, with notable annual inflation rates in Uzbekistan. While beef and lamb prices have surged significantly, poultry has seen a decrease. The general food inflation in Uzbekistan remains relatively low, despite rising meat prices.

Original Source: daryo.uz