Guyana will temporarily import approximately 330,000 pounds of chicken per week as the government moves to stabilise the poultry market and ensure consumers continue to access chicken at reasonable prices.
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha announced the measure on Monday during a meeting with representatives of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), where discussions focused on developments in the poultry industry and steps being taken to maintain consistent supply across the country.
Mustapha said the government, in collaboration with poultry stakeholders, has been closely monitoring production, supply and consumer demand to ensure that any short-term gaps in the market are addressed quickly.
As part of the intervention, the New Guyana Marketing Corporation will facilitate the importation process. The chicken will then be distributed through local distributors and suppliers across the country.
The minister stressed that the importation is temporary and carefully managed. He said the aim is to protect consumers from supply shortages while also supporting local poultry producers.
According to Mustapha, the imported chicken will complement local production as the domestic industry continues to strengthen.
“The objective is to ensure that there is a reliable supply of chicken for consumers while creating the conditions for our local poultry industry to continue expanding and becoming more resilient,” Mustapha said.
The minister also said the government is looking at long-term measures to strengthen the poultry sector, including expanding storage and cold-storage capacity.
He explained that increased storage would allow producers to better manage production and supply. During periods of high production, poultry could be properly stored and later released when demand rises, helping to create more stability for both producers and consumers.
Mustapha said the government’s wider approach is focused on building a stronger, more resilient and sustainable poultry industry while ensuring that consumers have access to affordable chicken.
He added that the government will continue working with poultry producers, importers, distributors and other private-sector stakeholders to monitor the market and respond where necessary.
The meeting with the PSC forms part of ongoing consultations between the government and the private sector as authorities work to strengthen agricultural value chains, improve market stability and support food security.
