Hashi from Somalia and Djibouti — Why Importers in Arab Markets Prefer It

Not everyone looking for camels is looking for a full-grown camel...

When an importer contacts a livestock supplier, their request isn't always simply "camels" in general — they often specify the exact category they need and ask for Hashi, because they know that each age category has different uses and requirements depending on the market.

With rising demand in markets such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the Sultanate of Oman, Hashi from Somalia and Djibouti has become an option that many importers pay close attention to — not only because of its availability, but also because of its ability to meet the needs of different customer segments.

But why do some importers specifically insist on Hashi? And what should be known before importing it?

What is Hashi?

Hashi is the young calf of the camel, from birth up to around two years of age. It is one of the categories that receives significant attention in certain markets, especially among customers who prefer tender, quick-to-cook meat.

Although many people use the word "camel" to describe all camels regardless of age, livestock traders distinguish between age stages, because this affects the nature of demand and the specifications required when importing.

Why is demand for Hashi from Somalia and Djibouti increasing?

Demand for Hashi from Somalia and Djibouti is rising across a number of Arab markets, and this demand isn't tied to a single factor — rather, it depends on several commercial considerations that vary from one market to another, the most important of which are:

• Existing demand for it in some Arab markets.

• Its suitability for the needs of different customer segments.

• The ability to order it in commercial quantities according to the importer's needs.

• Diverse supply options from regions known for the camel trade, such as Somalia and Djibouti.

For this reason, many importers make a point of monitoring Hashi availability before planning any import operation.

The first question an importer asks isn't about price!

Some might assume that price is the first thing on an importer's mind, but the reality is different.

In most cases, the trader begins by asking:

• Is Hashi currently available?

• What quantities are available?

• Can additional shipments be supplied later if demand increases?

• What is the expected supply/delivery date?

This is because the success of the venture doesn't depend on purchasing a single shipment alone, but on having a supplier who can also meet future needs.

Read more: Somali Camel Prices: What Factors Determine the Cost of Importing and Supply

What is the difference between Hashi and Qa'ud?

Is Hashi the same as Qa'ud?

• Hashi: The young camel calf, from birth up to around two years of age, characterized by tender meat and quick maturity.

• Qa'ud: A young male camel, generally between two and four years old, larger in size and requiring a longer cooking time.

Knowing this difference helps the importer determine the appropriate category according to the needs of the market they are targeting.

What determines the success of a Hashi import deal?

The success of a deal doesn't rest on price alone, but on several elements, most importantly:

• Availability of the required quantities.

• Clarity of Hashi specifications before contracting.

• Consistency of supply when new shipments are needed.

• The supplier's experience in export procedures.

• Adherence to delivery schedules.

For this reason, many importers prefer to build a long-term relationship with a trusted supplier rather than simply searching for the lowest price.

How does MHS Group Export help importers?

MHS Group Export understands that the first thing an importer looks for is knowing how available Hashi is and what quantities are on hand, so the company is committed to providing clear information that helps customers make confident decisions.

The company's services aren't limited to just supplying the product — it also helps importers choose the appropriate camel category according to the needs of their target market.

The company's services include:

• Exporting Hashi and camels from Somalia.

• Exporting sheep and calves from Somalia.

• Exporting Dorper sheep, Boer goats, and meat from South Africa.

• Serving livestock importers in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the Sultanate of Oman.

• Providing regular supply solutions suited to importers' needs.

What dishes is Hashi used in?

Hashi meat is known for its tenderness and quick maturity compared to some older camel age categories, which makes it in demand in a number of markets. Hashi is used in preparing many well-known Gulf dishes, such as:

• Kabsa

• Mandi

• Madghout

• Madhbi

• Marqooq

• Traditional dishes for special occasions

For this reason, many restaurants and event caterers make a point of including it among their food options.

Why does an importer care about knowing the camel type before requesting a price quote?

Price quotes vary depending on the category required — importing Hashi is different from importing Qa'ud or full-grown camels. A professional supplier therefore makes sure to know the type of camel requested, the number of heads, and the destination country before preparing a price quote, so the customer receives accurate information suited to their commercial needs.

Does the age of the camel affect the purchasing decision?

Yes — the importer's choice depends on the age category the market needs. Hashi differs from Qa'ud and mature camels in terms of age and commercial uses, so importers make sure to specify the required category before requesting a price quote, in order to get the specifications that match their needs.

What is the difference between Hashi, Qa'ud, and Camel?

Why are restaurants interested in Hashi?

Demand for Hashi isn't limited to individuals alone — some restaurants, catering companies, and event caterers also depend on it, needing a continuous supply to keep their businesses stable. This makes choosing the right supplier an essential factor in the success of their purchasing operations.

For this reason, many restaurant owners rely on a supplier who can provide Hashi on a regular basis, so their business isn't affected when demand increases.

When do importers prefer to buy Hashi?

Demand for Hashi rises during certain seasons, which is why many importers plan their purchasing operations early to ensure the required quantities are available and to avoid being affected by increased demand. Arranging in advance with a trusted supplier also helps organize shipments and avoid any delays that could affect business activity.

What information should be prepared before requesting a price quote?

To get an accurate price quote, an importer should ideally specify:

• The number of heads required.

• The required category (Hashi, Qa'ud, or other).

• The destination country.

• The expected shipping date.

• Any additional specifications related to the shipment.

The clearer this information is, the easier it becomes to prepare a quote that suits the importer's needs.

Why is demand for Hashi increasing in the Saudi market and some Arab markets?

Not all customers request camels with the same specifications. Some markets — the Saudi market chief among them — prefer Hashi because of its particular age stage, which meets the needs of a large number of restaurants, event caterers, and customers looking for tender meat.

For this reason, importers make sure to confirm Hashi availability before contracting, especially during seasons when demand rises, to ensure continued supply and meet market needs.

Did you know?

• Hashi is not the name of a camel breed — it refers to young camels within a specific age stage, which is why demand for it may differ from Qa'ud or mature camels depending on each market's needs.

• Demand for Hashi in some Gulf markets is tied to stable consumption habits, which is why importers make sure to secure supply ahead of peak-demand seasons, helping them meet customer needs without interruption.

Contact MHS Group Export

If you're planning to import Hashi from Somalia and want to know about available quantities or suitable supply options for your needs, the MHS Group Export team can provide you with the information necessary to help you make the right decision for your business.

• Egypt office: +20 155 741 2975

• South Africa office: +27 774 540 935

• Somalia office: +252 906 790 210

• Website: MHS Group

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hashi? It is the young camel calf, from birth up to around two years of age, and is one of the categories in demand in certain markets.

What is the difference between Hashi and Qa'ud? Hashi is younger, while Qa'ud is a young male camel usually between two and four years old.

Can Hashi be imported in commercial quantities? Yes, and this depends on the availability of the required quantities and the supply plan.

What is the first question an importer asks before buying? They usually ask about Hashi's availability, the quantities available, and the possibility of regular supply.

How does MHS Group Export help importers? By providing clear information about products and supply options, and supporting importers in Arab markets.

Conclusion

Hashi from Somalia and Djibouti has become a focus of interest for many livestock importers seeking options that match their markets' needs. However, the success of an import operation doesn't depend on choosing the right category alone, but on partnering with a supplier who has the experience and capability to provide the required quantities on a regular basis.

If you're looking for a partner who can supply Hashi from Somalia and Djibouti in suitable quantities with regular delivery, reaching out to the MHS Group Export team is the first step toward getting the accurate information your business needs.