Fact Check 2: Livestock and Economy

Does the livestock sector make up 40% of total agricultural GDP globally?

Globally, livestock is quoted as making a 40% contribution to total agricultural production, in terms of gross domestic product (GDP). In many cases, the provenance of the figure is unascertainable. Where does the fact originate? Is it up-to-date and relevant?

The Livestock Data for Decisions (LD4D) series, Livestock Fact Check, investigates the provenance of popular livestock related facts. The objective is to ensure robust, up-to-date and appropriately interpreted facts inform relevant discussions and decisions.

Header photo: Herder boy takes goats to the communal water point of watering, Garba Tulla, Kenya. ILRI/Fiona Flintan (source)