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Poultry prices in Punjab have skyrocketed as the Punjab Poultry Traders Association initiated a strike on Wednesday, causing a standstill in the distribution of poultry products throughout the region.
Official rates set by the government pegged live broiler prices at Rs 463 per kg. However, the market has seen a surge, with prices hitting Rs 495 per kg, marking a Rs 32 increase. This spike has led to a shortage of chicken supply, forcing meat shops to consider closure.
Protestors, comprised mainly of broiler supply vehicle operators, took to major roads to express discontent over the significant gap between government-set rates and actual market prices. They argue that the current rates, set 50-60 rupees lower than market value, are economically unsustainable for the poultry industry.
Tariq Javed, President of the Punjab Poultry Association, stressed the inability of the industry to bear such losses. He urged the government to address the issue either by enhancing the supply chain efficiency or by adjusting prices to match actual costs.
In response to the strike, the Retailers Association of Rawalpindi Division announced the suspension of broiler chicken supply for April 17. Meanwhile, the Rawalpindi Poultry Association has distanced itself from the strike and associated protests.
Poultry traders are seeking a resolution to the pricing disparity, aiming to strike a balance that serves both producers and consumers.