330,000 lbs of chicken to hit local market weekly – Agri Ministry

…PSC pushes stronger crackdown on illicit food trade

Some 330,000 pounds of chicken will be imported on a weekly basis to meet local demands, as part of temporary measures to address a local supply shortage. This is according to a statement from the Ministry of Agriculture issued on Monday, following a meeting between Subject Minister Zulfikar Mustapha and the Private Sector Commission (PSC). Minister Mustapha had told the media that the Government has decided to temporarily lift the ban to import chicken, following a request made by the Guyana Poultry Producers Association (GPPA) in July.
The GPPA had highlighted market trends showing a decline in production levels coupled with an increase in demand for chicken. The association’s representatives noted that the measure would assist in maintaining stable market prices during the period of reduced supply and that once local production returns to normal levels, there would be no need for continued importation. According to the statement on Monday, “arrangements have been put in place to facilitate the temporary importation of approximately 330,000 pounds of chicken per week. The imports will complement local production and help to maintain adequate supplies on the domestic market while local production continues to strengthen.” Minister Mustapha stressed that the measure is a temporary and carefully managed intervention, designed to safeguard consumers while at the same time protecting and supporting Guyana’s local poultry producers. The New Guyana Marketing Corporation (New GMC) is facilitating the importation process, with the chicken to be distributed through local distributors and suppliers across the country. The Minister said the process will remain subject to monitoring and oversight to ensure that the intervention achieves its intended purpose and that the market remains stable.

Long-term measure
Mustapha also highlighted Government’s commitment to strengthening the poultry industry over the long-term. He said attention is being given to expanding storage and cold-storage capacity within the sector. According to the Minister, increased storage capacity would provide producers with greater flexibility to manage production and market supply. “During periods when production is high, poultry could be properly stored and subsequently released onto the market when demand increases, helping to create greater predictability and stability for both producers and consumers,” the Ministry’s statement outlined. The Minister said Government’s approach is focused on maintaining a strong, resilient and sustainable poultry industry, while ensuring that consumers have access to an adequate supply of affordable chicken. He further emphasised that Government will continue to work closely with poultry producers, importers, distributors and other private-sector stakeholders to monitor the market and respond where necessary. “The objective is to ensure that there is a reliable supply of chicken for consumers while creating the conditions for our local poultry industry to continue expanding and becoming more resilient,” Minister Mustapha is quoted as saying in the statement.

PSC engagement
Meanwhile, according to the Agriculture Ministry, the engagement with the PSC forms part of Government’s ongoing consultations with the private sector as it works to strengthen Guyana’s agricultural value chains, improve market stability and ensure food security. During the engagement, the Minister explained that Government, in collaboration with stakeholders in the poultry industry, is closely monitoring production, supply and market demand to ensure that any temporary supply gaps are addressed in a timely manner. In its own statement issued on Monday, the PSC noted that the meeting also focused on support for the rice and sugar industries, and opportunities for growth in aquaculture, hydroponics, shade-house farming, and other high-value agricultural ventures. The PSC said discussions also explored improving storage and processing capacity, strengthening market access, expanding linkages between farmers and the hospitality sector and creating greater opportunities for private sector investment through partnerships and incentives. During the engagement, the Commission said it also highlighted the work of its Agriculture Subcommittee, noting its interest in supporting consortium-based investments in hydroponics and shade-house farming to make modern agricultural systems more accessible to businesses and farmers. The Commission further emphasised the significant potential for aquaculture and seafood production, encouraging greater collaboration to unlock new investment and export opportunities through technical support and strategic partnerships.

Illicit Trade
In advancing its commitment to combating illicit trade, the PSC proposed expanding the scope of its Illicit Trade Working Group to strengthen collaboration with the Government Analyst-Food and Drug Department, the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), and the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board (PTCCB). “The expanded collaboration would enhance information sharing and facilitate quicker responses to concerns involving the illegal importation and distribution of food, livestock, and related products, helping to protect consumers, support legitimate businesses, and safeguard Guyana’s food supply chain,” the PSC’s statement noted. According to the Commission, the Minister welcomed the proposal and expressed support for closer collaboration.