LAHORE: The soaring prices of chicken, which have now surpassed Rs600 per kilogram in Lahore, Faisalabad, and Jhang, have triggered widespread anger among citizens, particularly middle-class families already struggling with inflation. The price hike has made it increasingly difficult for many to afford chicken, a crucial protein source in their diets.
In the past two weeks, chicken prices have surged from Rs380–450 per kg to over Rs600 per kg in Lahore and Faisalabad, with Jhang seeing prices as high as Rs650 per kg. The steep rise is attributed to several factors, including increased demand during the wedding season, disruptions in the supply chain, and alleged price manipulation by the poultry mafia.
The Punjab Poultry Association claims that a supply-demand imbalance and the rising cost of chicks are major contributors to the surge. Poultry farm owners have reported a dramatic threefold increase in the price of chicks, from Rs60–70 to Rs220, with prices expected to reach Rs300 soon. Additionally, delays of up to 20 days in chick supply have further strained the market.
Retailers have expressed frustration over the discrepancy between government-set prices and actual farm costs. The government has fixed the price at Rs590 per kilogram, but shopkeepers argue that it is unsustainable to sell at that rate given the high prices they are paying to suppliers. “We are fined for not selling at the government rate, but we’re already operating at a loss,” said shopkeeper Imran Lodhi.
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Citizens have voiced their concerns, with many calling on the government to take immediate action. “It’s impossible for us to buy chicken at these rates,” said a frustrated shopper. “If this continues, the poor will be deprived of affordable protein.”
The poultry association has called for market-driven pricing, advocating against the government-imposed rates. However, consumer rights activists and the public have urged authorities to tackle the poultry mafia and take measures to stabilize prices to ensure that chicken remains affordable for all.
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