The Qatar Livestock Association (Anaam) has clarified that its recently signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Widam Food Company does not compel livestock owners or breeders to sell their animals exclusively to Widam. According to Anaam chairman Mubarak Rashid al-Sahouti, participation in the programme is entirely voluntary and based on supply, demand, and mutually agreed market prices.
The agreement, inked earlier this month, aims to provide a structured marketing channel for locally produced livestock, including sheep, goats, and camels. Widam, which operates Al Wakrah Central Abattoir and other private abattoirs in Qatar, will purchase livestock from participating breeders at prices aligned with prevailing market conditions. The company will then sell the animals to consumers through its sales network, applying an agreed-upon profit margin.
Al-Sahouti emphasized that the initiative targets breeders who face challenges in marketing their livestock due to limited expertise, resources, or market access. However, breeders who are able to market their livestock independently and achieve satisfactory prices remain free to do so. He highlighted that the partnership is designed not to replace existing sales channels but to offer an additional option for those needing support in reaching consumers.
Livestock covered under the arrangement will be available through Widam’s yards at Al Wakrah Central Abattoir, Umm Salal Central Market, Al Shahaniya Central Abattoir, and the Abu Nakhla sales area. Notably, for the first time, locally produced meat and livestock will also be accessible through Widam’s electronic application, providing consumers with a digital purchasing option.
The programme is expected to operate year-round, subject to availability, seasonal production cycles, livestock varieties, and market prices. Anaam will act as the coordinating body between breeders and Widam, facilitating identification of supply and ensuring products meet market specifications in terms of weight and quality.
The initiative builds on a pilot programme conducted during Ramadan and Eid al-Adha, periods of traditionally high demand for livestock and red meat in Qatar. The positive outcomes of these seasonal efforts motivated both parties to extend the arrangement into a permanent marketing scheme.
The partnership aligns with Qatar’s broader efforts to bolster domestic agricultural and livestock production as part of national food security strategies. The 2026 Eid al-Adha initiative, coordinated by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) and the Ministry of Municipality, allocated 12,500 head of livestock, including both locally bred and imported animals. Widam reported availability of approximately 10,000 head during this period, supporting increased consumer demand.
Under the government programme, the price of a locally bred sheep was set at QR1,000, matching the price of an imported sheep, underscoring the role of local livestock in meeting seasonal supply needs. Animals were distributed through Widam facilities in Al Shamali, Al Khor, Umm Salal, Al Wakrah, Al Shahaniya, Abu Nakhla, and via the company’s electronic platform.