PRODUCTION OF MUTTONIN THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA COMPARED WITHTHE OTHER FORMER YUGOSLAV COUNTRIES
Journal
KNOWLEDGE –International Journal
Date Issued
2025
Author(s)
Aleksandra Silovska Nikolova
Abstract
Sheep farming holds a significant position in livestock production, particularly thriving in hilly and mountainous areas. Compared to other domestic animals, sheep have a notable advantage in converting food into meat.Unlike non-ruminants, sheep meet most of their nutritional needs through grazing. Proper nutrition is a crucial factor influencing meat production in sheep. Lamb meat production primarily targets European markets, generating substantial revenue for the country.This paper aims to analyze mutton production from 2012 to 2022 in Republic ofNorth Macedonia compared to other former Yugoslav countries, including Republic of Serbia, Republic ofMontenegro,Federation ofBosnia and Herzegovina,Republic ofCroatia, and Republic ofSlovenia. Data for this research was sourced from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) website. During this period, Republic of Serbia emerged as the largest mutton producer among these countries, averaging 28,862.09 tons, while Republic ofMontenegro was the smallest producer with 1,115.48 tons. The average mutton production in other former Yugoslav countries during this time was as follows: Republic ofCroatia produced 5,284.09 tons, Republic ofNorth Macedonia produced 3,936.45tons, Federation ofBosnia and Herzegovina produced 1,399.34 tons, and Republic ofSlovenia produced 1,374.82 tons.To enhance mutton production, it is recommended that Agriculture and Rural Development propose long-term measures such as improving farming conditions, introducing food safety standards, enhancing animal welfare standards, and building and promoting a lamb meat brand.
Subjects