Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
01 November 2023 | 09:37 CAT
1-min read

Picture: The Happy Chicken Coop

South Africa is experiencing significant challenges in the poultry industry due to a bird flu outbreak, leading to shortages and a sharp increase in prices. The Association of Meat Importers and Exporters (AMIE) has emphasised the need for interventions to counter the repercussions of the avian influenza outbreak.

Speaking on the matter, CEO of AMIE, Paul Matthew, discussed the situation in an interview on Radio Islam International. “The local chicken producers are experiencing the worst outbreak of avian influenza that the country has ever seen.”

He said that the organisation welcomed Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel’s directive to consider creating a temporary rebate on import duties for chickens. He said that the pace of proposed emergency measures, however, remains sluggish, stressing the need for a reduction in tariffs to ensure the continued flow of poultry imports into the country.

Matthew discussed the substantial impact on prices. “You’re probably seeing anything between another R4 per kilogram onto poultry,” he said, and noted a further escalation of prices due to anticipated scarcity.

He also addressed the alarming surge in egg prices, indicating that some retail outlets have witnessed a near doubling of prices, with a projected recovery process of about 12 months for local producers.

In efforts to alleviate the crisis, Matthew proposed a reduction in tariffs on bone-in chicken products, emphasising the need for a comprehensive approach to the challenges. He urged a re-evaluation of the existing Poultry Master Plan, calling for a strategic shift to incorporate proactive measures to tackle crises such as the ongoing avian influenza outbreak.

He also discussed the critical significance of bolstering biosecurity measures within the local poultry production system, citing the increasing prevalence of diseases within the agricultural sector globally.

Amid concerns about the timeline for recovery, Matthew indicated that the situation could take approximately 12 months to stabilise, citing the intricate process involved in replenishing the breeding stock and importing and hatching eggs.

Listen to the full interview on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat here: