– move aimed at meeting rising demand and maintaining stable prices

THE Government is considering a request for the temporary importation of chicken as local production declines amid rising demand, with Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, assuring that any decision will balance the interests of consumers, poultry producers and the long-term sustainability of the industry.
The matter was discussed on Tuesday when Minister Mustapha met with representatives of the Guyana Poultry Producers Association (GPPA) at his office to review current developments and challenges affecting the local poultry sector.

During the engagement, representatives of the Association reported that recent market trends have shown a decline in local chicken production alongside an increase in consumer demand.
The GPPA subsequently sought the Government’s assistance in facilitating temporary chicken imports to help address the supply gap and ensure that the market remains adequately supplied.
According to the Association, the proposed measure could help prevent significant price increases during the period of reduced local production by supplementing available supplies and maintaining greater market stability.
The representatives indicated that the request was intended as a short-term intervention and that continued importation would not be necessary once local production returns to normal levels.
Minister Mustapha said the Government would carefully assess the request before making a decision.
He noted that any action taken must be in the best interest of consumers while also taking into consideration the needs of local poultry producers and the continued development and sustainability of Guyana’s poultry industry.

The Agriculture Minister’s engagement with the GPPA forms part of ongoing efforts to monitor developments within the sector and respond to challenges that may affect local production, consumer access and market prices.