September 6, 2005
  

USDA: Venezuela poultry and products annual 2005

Venezuelan poultry production is expected to improve in 2005 and 2006, due to growing consumer demand resulting from low prices of poultry as compared to beef and pork. Retail poultry prices continue to be under price controls. 

Government poultry imports are forecast to increase as the Government of Venezuela (GOV) continues to expand its food distribution programs and develop cold-storage facilities. 

Official trade data affirm that 25,000 tons of poultry were imported in 2004, although the local industry believes that government imports have reached more than 75,000 tons. 

The forecast for 2006 is 95,000 tons of imported poultry. Currently, Brazil is the only poultry supplier to the GOV, but some private importers have shown interest in U.S. poultry.

The poultry sector has repeatedly requested a price increase at the retail level. The industry states that costs of production are rising, while the retail price of poultry remains unchanged.

However, no significant change in economic policies, including the current food price controls and foreign exchange control, are expected in the near future.

For the full USDA report, click here.