Eid ul Azha is one of the biggest informal economic events in Pakistan. According to a Dawn report, the festival is estimated to generate around Rs. 641 billion in total economic activity this year. The overall spending is expected to range between Rs. 539 billion and Rs. 752 billion.
Every year, approximately 7.4 million animals are sacrificed across the country. This massive activity provides a huge boost to the livestock sector, with farmers earning more than Rs. 400 billion from animal sales. This makes Eid ul Azha one of the largest urban-to-rural wealth transfers in Pakistan, sending large amounts of money from cities to villages.
During the festival, over 532,000 tons of meat were distributed among families, relatives, and the needy. The event also significantly benefits butchers, transporters, traders, and tannery workers. The sudden increase in cash circulation gives a strong push to the informal economy.
Experts say that while Eid ul Azha brings substantial economic benefits, most of this activity remains undocumented. The festival not only holds deep religious importance but also plays a vital role in supporting millions of livelihoods across Pakistan every year.
