Livestock traders plan to sell 60,000 goats in the valley during Dashain festival. The state-owned Nepal Food Corporation (NFC) is planning to sell 4,000 goats from its outlets this year. Traders expect the demand for goat to increase as valley residents have been avoiding chicken due to recent bird flu outbreaks.

The Nepal Livestock Traders Association has reported that it will supply 50,000 goats and 5,000 mountain goats during the festival. India is the major supplier of goats in the country. More than 80% of goats are imported from India.

According to the association, domestic goats will be sold for Rs 370 to Rs 380 per kg whereas imported goats could cost Rs 400 per kg. Last year, live goats were sold at Rs 320 per kg before Dashain but prices increased by 20% during Dashain.