The Poultry Committee

The Poultry Industry showed mixed performance in 2009 when compared to 2008 as broiler production declined while egg production showed an increase.

The production of poultry meat showed a decline as 104,502,133 kilograms was produced in 2009 while in 2008, 106,721,135 kilograms was produced. The decline did not result in any undue shortage as the depressed state of the economy resulted in lower demand for poultry meat. There was no large scale importation of poultry meat except for the usual importation of chicken necks and backs for the marginalized.

Eggs

Egg production for the year 2009 was 129.6 million, an increase when compared to 120.9 million eggs produced in 2008.  

The year was one of the most challenging in the history of the layer business when farmers were forced to sell eggs below the cost of production for an extended period while large quantities were placed in cold storage for an extended period. The difficulties experienced have forced some egg producers out of the market while others have reduced their flock size.

It was noticeable that much more efforts was made to market eggs as more advertising was done in the print and electronic media.

Feed supplies remained stable but prices increased during the year, which provided serious challenges to the larger farmers.