The Cabinet has approved the import of high-quality genetic cattle from Pakistan and the procurement of Sahiwal bull semen from India to enhance local milk production.

Despite Rs. 100 million being allocated in 2023 and 2024 for acquiring genetic cattle, challenges in the procurement process delayed progress. To address this, the gove ment explored direct transactions with other countries.

The Pakistan Trade Development Authority, facilitated by the Pakistan High Commission, has agreed to supply seven seminal bulls of the Sahiwal and Niliravi breeds. Additionally, 20,000 units of Sahiwal bull semen will be purchased from the National Dairy Development Board of India until the cattle arrive and local semen production begins.

The Cabinet approved the Agriculture Minister's proposal to proceed with both initiatives as gove ment-to-gove ment transactions. This strategy aims to strengthen Sri Lanka’s dairy industry and reduce dependency on imported milk products.