March 01, Colombo (LNW): The All Ceylon Poultry Product Manufacturers’ Association (ACPPMA) has voiced apprehensions regarding the import of eggs, stressing the need to redirect the substantial funds spent on imports towards the development of the local poultry industry.
ACPPMA President Ajith Gunasekara, in a statement to the Daily News, expressed concern about the significant foreign exchange outflow for importing eggs from India. He advocated for redirecting these substantial funds, running into millions of dollars, towards supporting the local poultry sector by establishing new farms. Gunasekara proposed collaborative efforts between the Agriculture Ministry and Local Government authorities to initiate poultry farms with the assistance of unemployed youth, leveraging available land, water resources, and favorable climatic conditions.
Gunasekara highlighted that such an investment could lead to a reduction in the current market prices of chicken, currently ranging between Rs.1,100 and Rs.1,250 per kilogram. He urged swift action to develop the local poultry industry, asserting that it would result in a significant decrease in both egg and chicken prices, especially during the upcoming New Year season.
Additionally, Gunasekara pointed out the increasing trend of individuals establishing poultry farms in their home gardens. He urged the government to support these initiatives by providing financial loans with low interest rates, encouraging the growth of small-scale poultry farming.
In response, Trade Minister Nalin Perera assured the public that necessary poultry food and medicine are readily available in the market at reasonable prices, aiming to alleviate concerns about potential shortages or price spikes.
