May 15, 2025

Chicken prices rise in Andhra Pradesh, India, following weeks of slump

After weeks of slump, chicken prices are increasing across Andhra Pradesh, India, due to summer conditions, The Times of India reported on May 10.

Live broiler chicken is selling for ₹140 (US$1.68) per kilogramme, while dressed chicken is priced at ₹260 (US$3.12) per kg.

Despite the market price of chicken reaching ₹260 (US$3.12) per kg, the poultry industry in the state continues to face sustainability challenges because of significant losses experienced in February 2025 due to bird flu, as well as the mounting cost of production and adverse weather conditions.

Poultry farmers (broiler chicken growers) in several parts of Andhra Pradesh are expressing reluctance about remaining in the sector. Although the retail price of skinless dressed chicken has reached ₹260 (US$3.12) per kg, poultry farmers receive only ₹100–₹110 (US$1.20–US$1.32) per kg for live birds, making the trade less attractive for them.

K. Srinu, a poultry farmer in Vizag city and representative of the Broiler Chicken Association of North Coastal Andhra Pradesh, told TOI that chicken prices have risen by around 20% state-wide in the past week. This increase is attributed to the gap between demand and supply, as hot weather conditions have reduced production output.

"We incurred losses for the past few months due to bird flu in February 2025 and lower prices during March and April. We anticipate that chicken prices may further rise in the coming days due to the widening gap between demand and supply, and poultry farmers might finally see some profits," Srinu said.

If poultry farmers get at least up to ₹130 (US$1.56) per kg for a live bird, they will get some profits. However, the country chicken growers are getting good profits as they are selling at ₹700–₹800 (US$8.40–US$9.60) per kg live bird due to low production and high demand, said G. Ramu Naidu, a poultry farmer in North Andhra Pradesh.

This summer, eggs and broiler chicken will be slightly costlier in the coming days as the hot weather leads to poor production. The reason for the possible price hike is increased production cost and the recent bird flu impacted the poultry industry, where many stopped chicken farming, said Sk Husain, a meat trader.
 

- The Times of India