Poultry Sector Expands as Prices Remain High for Consumers
Pakistan’s poultry industry has continued to grow steadily over the past decade, even as consumers face persistently high prices for chicken and eggs amid rising production costs and market fluctuations.
According to industry data and the Economic Survey FY25, the poultry sector has recorded an average annual growth rate of around 8% over the last 10 years, driven mainly by the expansion of commercial broiler farming.
Market Prices Remain Elevated
Despite changes in supply conditions, poultry prices have not seen significant relief for consumers. In Karachi, live chicken prices recently declined slightly after Eidul Azha, averaging between Rs370 and Rs420 per kg. However, market rates in other cities remain within a similar range.
Traders note that prices had earlier dropped during border closures with Afghanistan but later stabilised or increased again due to demand and supply pressures.
Egg prices have shown some easing, falling to around Rs20–22 per egg in certain markets due to reduced demand during the summer season and school holidays.
Export and Supply Factors
Industry stakeholders say that while exports of poultry products—including live birds, chicks, feed, and eggs—have faced disruptions, these restrictions have not significantly reduced retail prices.
Demand patterns also play a key role. After Eidul Azha, poultry consumption typically slows as households rely on stored meat, though prices often remain firm due to market conditions and production costs.
Red Meat Prices Stay High
Compared to poultry, red meat remains significantly more expensive. Beef prices are reported in the range of Rs1,500 to Rs1,800 per kg, while mutton is priced between Rs2,700 and Rs2,900 per kg, making chicken a more affordable protein source for many households.
Food Sector Pricing Trends
Despite fluctuations in raw poultry prices, retail food items prepared from chicken have seen little change. Popular items such as chicken karahi, biryani, broast, and burgers continue to be sold at stable prices in restaurants and fast-food outlets, with branded outlets generally charging higher rates.
Industry Outlook
According to the Economic Survey FY25, Pakistan’s poultry population is projected to reach 2.26 billion birds, supported by growth in commercial farming and hatchery production.
Chicken meat accounts for more than 40% of the country’s total meat consumption. The industry is also among the largest globally and provides employment to over 1.5 million people.
While the sector continues to expand, consumers are still facing limited relief in retail prices, highlighting the ongoing gap between production growth and market affordability.
