Local poultry producers slash chicken prices

The Agriculture Ministry yesterday announced that the local poultry producers have agreed to reduce the price of chicken by Rs. 100 per kilogram.

The move comes following the Government announcing President Ranil Wickremesinghe approved to allow chicken imports for commercial purposes on Monday.

Trade Minister Nalin Fernando on Monday justifying the move said the measure is intended to ensure a steady supply of poultry products in the market and prevent future price surges. 

He also asserted that if the prices of chicken in the market are not effectively controlled by this decision, further steps will be taken to import chicken for direct consumption in the future.

President Wickreme-

singhe has also instructed agricultural authorities to develop a program aimed at providing chicken and eggs at affordable prices to the public. In addition, the President has also advised the authorities to take necessary measures to import parent stocks, which will enable local breeders to produce more chicks through breeder farms.