In an unprecedented market shift, Karachi’s residents are grappling with the sharp incline in poultry prices. A recent official notification from the Commissioner of Karachi establishes the current cost of chicken meat, setting a significant precedent in the city’s commercial landscape.
Poltary retailers in Karachi are now selling at Rs 502 per kilogram. Contrastingly, poultry farms have different rates, with the price per kilogram of chicken fixed at Rs 310 and wholesalers obtaining it at Rs 318 per kilogram. These figures, however, starkly contrast the market’s reality, with actual costs skyrocketing over the past few months.
Back in February 2023, the citizens of Karachi witnessed a staggering surge in chicken meat prices, with rates reaching a whopping Rs 700 per kilogram. This increase has not only affected household budgets but also signified chicken meat, a staple protein source, transitioning into a luxury item, especially for middle-class families who are already burdened by the escalating costs of mutton and beef.
Underlying Causes of the Poultry Crisis
This financial strain on consumers is largely attributed to the shutting down of numerous poultry businesses, a direct consequence of an acute feed shortage. The crisis isn’t solely confined to Karachi; it mirrors the poultry price patterns in other cities such as Rawalpindi and Islamabad, where the rates have equally peaked, marking an all-time high with chicken selling at around Rs 700-705 per kilogram.
In Lahore, the scenario is slightly varied, with chicken meat prices floating between Rs 550-600 per kilogram, still a significant financial consideration for everyday consumers.
With the situation escalating, the government has stepped in, initiating a comprehensive investigation to unravel the reasons behind the feed shortage, disrupting the poultry market. This inquiry marks a critical step towards understanding and addressing the core issues plaguing the poultry industry and its subsequent impact on consumers across various socio-economic segments.
