November 10, Colombo (LNW): A high-level meeting was convened recently to discuss the sharp and irregular price changes affecting eggs, chicken, and pork, with officials and farmers agreeing on the need to balance producer income with consumer affordability.
The discussion brought together representatives of the All Ceylon Animal Production and Common Transporters Farmers’ Organisation, based in Dadugama, Ja-Ela, and the Director General of the Department of Animal Production and Health, Dr K. K. Sarath.
The farmers’ group, which plays a crucial role in distributing livestock products nationwide, outlined the mounting challenges in production and transport that have contributed to price instability.
Participants also raised concerns over the continuing impact of African swine fever on pig farms, warning that the disease has disrupted supply chains and pushed up costs in several regions. Stabilising prices for animal products, they stressed, would require better coordination between producers, transporters, and government agencies.
Dr Sarath assured that the Department would work closely with the relevant authorities to address these issues and implement practical measures to ensure the steady flow of livestock products to markets. He further emphasised the importance of safeguarding both farmers’ livelihoods and consumers’ access to affordable, quality food.
The meeting, attended by Farmers’ Organisation Chairman Kularajah Perera and other senior officials, concluded with a shared commitment to developing a coordinated strategy aimed at maintaining market stability in the country’s livestock sector.
