The Punjab Poultry Traders Association has called for a strike on Wednesday, leading to a halt in the delivery of poultry products across the region. As a result, meat shops are facing closure due to an insufficient supply of chicken. Broiler supply vehicles affiliated with the poultry trade were seen parked on major roads, as protestors voiced their concerns over the pricing of broiler chickens. Protestors highlighted that the current government-set rate for broiler chickens is 50-60 rupees lower than the actual market rate. They argue that supplying broiler chickens at this reduced rate is not economically viable. Tariq Javed, President of the Punjab Poultry Association, emphasized that they cannot sustain such losses.

He urged the government to either improve the supply chain or adjust the pricing to reflect the actual costs. According to official rate lists, the government has fixed the price for live broiler at Rs 463 per kg. However, the market rate has surged to Rs 495 per kg, marking an increase of Rs 32. In response to the strike, the Retailers Association of Rawalpindi Division has announced the suspension of broiler chicken supply for April 17. Meanwhile, the Rawalpindi Poultry Association has distanced itself from the strike and protest actions. The poultry traders are demanding a resolution to the pricing issue, hoping to find a middle ground that benefits both producers and consumers alike.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan