Cheap Chicken imports threatening growth of local Poultry industry – Stakeholders

According to industry players, imported poultry products continue to enjoy significant price advantages, making it difficult for domestic producers to compete effectively. They argue that the situation is restricting the growth of local production, limiting expansion opportunities for farmers, and reducing the sector’s capacity to create jobs.

The concerns come ahead of the sixth edition of Ghana Poultry Day, where key stakeholders are expected to deliberate on strategies to strengthen the poultry value chain and enhance the industry’s contribution to the country’s economy.

Speaking ahead of the event, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, Executive Director and Founder of Agrihouse Foundation, called for sustained policy interventions to address market conditions that favour imported poultry products.

She noted that while demand for chicken remains strong, consumers often make purchasing decisions based on affordability and availability, placing locally produced chicken at a disadvantage against cheaper imports.

According to Akosa, imported poultry products benefit from economies of scale, government subsidies in exporting countries, and well-established supply chains, allowing them to reach Ghanaian consumers at lower prices, particularly in urban markets.

She cautioned that without targeted measures to ensure fair competition and support local producers, Ghana’s poultry industry may struggle to achieve sustainable growth and unlock its full economic potential.

Akosa therefore advocated stronger enforcement of standards and market regulations, increased local procurement, targeted support for poultry farmers, and public awareness campaigns to encourage the consumption of locally produced chicken.

She stressed that addressing existing market distortions would not only improve farmers’ incomes but also boost job creation, strengthen food security, and help reduce the country’s import bill.

Meanwhile, Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, John Dumelo, acknowledged the challenges facing the industry and said the government is implementing measures to reduce poultry imports while expanding domestic production.

He explained that ongoing policies aimed at increasing the supply of locally produced chicken are expected to gradually reduce Ghana’s dependence on imports and contribute to more stable market prices.

According to the Deputy Minister, government support for commercial poultry farmers and efforts to expand production capacity will improve both the availability and affordability of Ghanaian chicken, strengthening the sector’s long-term prospects.