Response from the Ministry to the Claim that 2,5 Million Small Cattle Animals were Sent to Qatar

The Ministry of Commerce responded to the claims in the media that 2,5 million sheep and goats were exported to Qatar.

The ministry statement said:

“There were reports in some written and visual media that 2,5 million small cattle were exported to Qatar.

In the period of November-December 2021, the export of sheep and goats to Qatar is 22 thousand 600 on the basis of quantity. In January and February of 2022, 22 thousand 575 sheep and goats were exported to Qatar. In March 2022, 9 thousand 850 sheep and goats were exported to Qatar.

According to the data of our Ministry, a total of 2020 sheep and goats were exported in 155.736. Small cattle exports to Qatar in 2020 are 72.005 on quantity basis.

In 2021, a total of 264.216 sheep and goats were exported. Ovine exports to Qatar in 2021 are 96.797 on quantity basis.

However, as of March 18, 2022, the certification procedures regarding the export of live cattle and sheep have been suspended by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.

Therefore, the claims in the media that 2,5 million small cattle were exported to Qatar do not reflect the truth, and it is important to show sensitivity to the notifications made by our Ministry in order to inform the public correctly about the issue.

As the Ministry of Commerce, we invite everyone to avoid statements that are not based on concrete information that will cause speculation in the public, and to act responsibly.”