January 17, 2012

Pakistan chicken sells at high price on short supply

The abnormal rise in chicken prices at PKR220-240 (US$2.44-2.66) per kilogramme in the Punjab capital on Monday (Jan 16) is because of short supply and high demand, according to market sources.

The sources added that over 50% poultry products are being smuggled to Afghanistan and some other neighbouring countries for high profit. They predicted further raise in chicken prices in days to come.

Some days ago, the chicken price was between PKR135-170 (US$1.49-1.88) per kilogramme but it jumped suddenly during last two days without any check from the authorities concerned.

According to a survey purchase of chicken meat has gone beyond the reach of common man. A government employee Mohammed Essa told Daily The Pak Banker that chicken was the only commodity which they could buy because of its low price. But, he was now unable to purchase chicken meat due to its high rates.

A house wife, Zeenat Begum said her hubby used to bring chicken meat thrice a week but now he could not afford it within limited income.

Meanwhile a wholesale dealer Ramzan Bhatti said poultry cartel was active behind surge in poultry prices.