Broiler prices soar by Rs240 per kg in three weeks

Live bird sells Rs100 above official rate; boneless chicken hits Rs1,040 per kg

KARACHI:

Broiler prices have surged in the metropolis ahead of winter, with broiler meat becoming up to Rs240 per kg more expensive in three weeks, while live birds are selling at up to Rs100 above the official rate.

Until the last week of September, chicken meat was selling for Rs490 per kg and live chicken for Rs390. Prices have since climbed to Rs680-700 per kg, while live bird has become Rs160 per kg more expensive over the past three weeks.

Against the official rate of Rs456 per kg, live chicken is being sold in markets for as much as Rs550 per kg. Boneless chicken has also witnessed a Rs240 increase, reaching Rs1,040 per kg.

Broiler shops have attributed the price hike to a widening gap between supply and demand. They said demand was rising ahead of winter while production remained low, adding that poultry farms, rather than the government, controlled chicken prices.

Consumers, however, have complained that they are being charged winter-level prices despite the prevailing hot weather. They have urged the Karachi commissioner and district authorities to ensure compliance with official price lists and take action against profiteering.