February 28, 2007

Poultry farmers in Jordan see red over proposal to lift custom duties
 

Poultry farmers in Jordan are protesting against a proposal to exempt importers of frozen chicken and fish from customs duties for six months.

The proposal would be a disaster for the poultry industry business if it is implemented, said Haidar Amairah, owner of Al Tahouni chicken.

Farmers expect it will have a major negative impact on their businesses, which had just recovered from last year's bird flu scare. The proposal comes as prices of poultry meat has been increased in recent months due to increased feed prices, which rose nearly 23 percent. 

Major industry players in the countries are negotiating with the Agriculture Ministry to discuss the issue.