The Association of Animal Production has projected a potential drop in the price of chicken and eggs following the government’s recent decision to reduce the import tax on maize, a key ingredient in animal feed. The association’s chairman, Ajith Gunasekara, anticipates that this move will lead to the reduction of feed production costs, which could eventually translate into lower prices for consumers.
Gunasekara expressed confidence that the maize required for animal feed production could be imported within a short span of two weeks due to the new measures. He further mentioned that this reduction in costs could lead to the price of 1kg of chicken decreasing to around Rs. 1,200. Additionally, he noted that the possibility of selling an egg at Rs. 40 could be on the horizon.
On August 18, the government made an announcement regarding the reduction of the import tax on maize from Rs. 75.00 to Rs. 25.00 for every 1 kilogram. This measure, as explained by Finance State Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, aims to drive down the production costs of animal feed, thereby indirectly affecting consumer prices for products like chicken and eggs.
The decision is expected to have a significant impact on the cost structure of the poultry industry, ultimately influencing the affordability of these essential protein sources for the general public.
