Pakistan’s Qurbani numbers may hit lowest level in five years as poverty, inflation squeeze households

Pakistan’s Eid-ul-Adha sacrifice trend appears to be shrinking sharply, with economic experts linking the decline to rising poverty, inflation and falling purchasing power across the country.

A widely circulated economic graphic featuring analyst Dr. Farrukh Saleem claims the number of sacrificial animals in Pakistan could fall to nearly 6 million in 2026 — down from around 10 million in 2022.

According to the figures shared:

• 2022: 10 million animals
• 2023: 8.5 million
• 2024: 7.2 million
• 2025: 6.5 million
• 2026: 6 million (estimated)

The data points to a continuous decline in Qurbani activity over five years, reflecting worsening economic conditions and changing consumer behavior.

Economists say inflation, stagnant incomes, and rising livestock prices have significantly reduced the buying power of ordinary Pakistanis. Even though inflation slowed in 2025 compared to the crisis years, households continue to struggle with the cumulative impact of food, fuel, and electricity price hikes. The World Bank noted that inflation outpaced income growth and “eroded purchasing power,” especially among vulnerable families.

According to independent estimates by the Social Policy and Development Center (SPDC), nearly 105 million Pakistanis are now living below the poverty line, with around 27 million additional people falling into poverty since 2018-19. The report estimates poverty at around 43.5% of the population.

Separate World Bank assessments also warn that Pakistan’s poverty reduction gains have reversed in recent years due to inflation, economic shocks, floods, and weak structural reforms.

Despite the worsening economic situation for citizens, criticism is growing over what many analysts describe as the government and bureaucracy’s failure to reduce elite privileges and state expenditures. Public debate continues over perks enjoyed by sections of the ruling structure, including official vehicles, subsidized fuel, free electricity, government residences, and protocol expenses, while ordinary Pakistanis struggle with rising living costs.

Livestock traders in major cattle markets say many middle-class families are increasingly opting for shared sacrifices or smaller animals, while others are skipping Qurbani altogether due to affordability concerns.

The Eid-ul-Adha economy remains one of Pakistan’s largest seasonal financial cycles, involving farmers, transporters, feed suppliers, butchers, leather traders and temporary workers. However, analysts warn that unless household incomes improve, the country may continue to see a decline in one of its largest annual religious and economic events.