18 American Brahman Cows Seized in Dhaka Airport

Bangladesh’s livestock officials expressed serious concern after the Dhaka Customs House seized 18 American Brahman cattle imported from the United States. The introduction and breeding of this cattle variety in Bangladesh have raised apprehensions regarding future milk shortages due to potential crossbreeding with the local variant.

Livestock authorities worry that crossbreeding may lead to decreased milk production, despite the country’s current self-sufficiency in meat production. Shaikh Azizur Rahman, the director general of the Department of Livestock Services, highlighted the potential consequences, emphasizing the need to prosecute those responsible for these imports.

The importation of the American Brahman variety has sparked fresh concerns due to fears that crossbreeding could alter the taste of Bangladeshi meat. The recent seizure at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport marks the second consignment intercepted in months, emphasizing the concern and strict measures against the entry of this cattle variant into the country.

The American Brahman cattle, valued at Tk 10 to Tk 15 lakh each in the market, were brought in by Sadeeq Agro, sparking debates around potential impacts on the local cattle variety and the meat industry in Bangladesh. Despite previous efforts to experimentally introduce semen samples in 2008 under the Beef Cattle Development Project, authorities ceased the practice considering its impact on the local variant.

This incident has reignited discussions on the potential threats posed by imported cattle varieties and their impact on Bangladesh’s livestock industry.