April 12, 2022

South African Association of Meat Importers and Exporters warns of rising chicken prices

The South African Association of Meat Importers and Exporters said chicken prices are expected to increase, and has called for the removal of trade tariffs on all poultry products and a three-year moratorium on any new tariffs to ease consumers' burden, Eyewitness News South Africa reported.

The association represents South African firms that import and export poultry, beef, and pork. It also includes companies that produce meat-based products for local consumption.

Paul Matthew, CEO of the Association of Meat Importers and Exporters, said abolishing VAT on poultry products will reduce the pressure on poor consumers.

He said prices are expected to rise because of the impact of Russia's invasion into Ukraine affecting global food security, soaring fuel prices, rising transport and electricity costs, trade tariffs, disruptions to the supply chain, which will affect consumers facing declining wages and higher unemployment rates.

Matthew said chicken prices could drop by 33% in South Africa for bone-in chicken pieces and between 18% and 20% on chicken offal if tariffs were removed.

-      Eyewitness News South Africa reported