…PSC pushes stronger crackdown on illicit food trade

Some 330,000 pounds of chicken will be imported on a weekly basis to meet local demands, as part of temporary measures to address a local supply shortage. This is according to a statement from the Ministry of Agriculture issued on Monday, following a meeting between Subject Minister Zulfikar Mustapha and the Private Sector Commission (PSC). Minister Mustapha had told the media that the Government has decided to temporarily lift the ban to import chicken, following a request made by the Guyana Poultry Producers Association (GPPA) in July.

The GPPA had highlighted market trends showing a decline in production levels coupled with an increase in demand for chicken. The association’s representatives noted that the measure would assist in maintaining stable market prices during the period of reduced supply and that once local production returns to normal levels, there would be no need for continued importation. According to the statement on Monday, “arrangements have been put in place to facilitate the temporary importation of approximately 330,000 pounds of chicken per week. The imports will complement local production and help to maintain adequate supplies on the domestic market while local production continues to strengthen.” Minister Mustapha stressed that the measure is a temporary and carefully managed intervention, designed to safeguard consumers while at the same time protecting and supporting Guyana’s local poultry producers. The New Guyana Marketing Corporation (New GMC) is facilitating the importation process, with the chicken to be distributed through local distributors and suppliers across the country. The Minister said the process will remain subject to monitoring and oversight to ensure that the intervention achieves its intended purpose and that the market remains stable.