Poultry prices in Ghana could increase by at least 15% ahead of the Christmas festivities, with farmers warning that rising feed costs and expensive imported production inputs are putting pressure on the industry.
The Greater Accra Poultry Farmers Association says the rising cost of maize, soya and other ingredients used in poultry feed is making production more expensive. Higher freight charges have added to the burden, leaving farmers with little choice but to adjust prices.
Speaking to Joy Business during a school outreach programme in Dansoman to mark World Egg Day, the association’s Chief Executive, Mohammed Ali, said consumers should prepare for price changes before the festive season.
“Maybe not less than 15 percent, we must see some price change,” he said.
Mr Ali called on the government to support increased local production of maize and soya to reduce farmers’ dependence on imported feed ingredients.
“When we are able to have an abundance locally, the feed price will surely come down,” he added.
Beyond production costs, the association is also concerned about the gap between farm-gate prices and the amounts consumers pay at retail outlets, particularly for eggs.
Mr Ali said crates of eggs were selling at between GH¢40 and GH¢45 at the farm gate, but some retailers were allegedly adding as much as GH¢20 before selling them to consumers.
He argued that retail prices should not exceed GH¢50 per crate and called on the Ministry of Trade and Agribusiness to introduce measures to address what the association considers excessive mark-ups.
As part of its World Egg Day activities, the association visited five school clusters in Dansoman to educate pupils on the nutritional benefits of eggs. More than 100,000 eggs were reportedly distributed during the exercise.
The association says expanding local feed production and improving market practices are necessary to support poultry farmers and make poultry products more affordable for consumers.
