Controlled Frozen Chicken Imports Until September

During a press conference held by the MSM (Mauritian Socialist Movement), Mahen Seeruttun, the Minister of Agro-industry, addressed the current situation regarding eggs and chicken in the country. He assured attendees that local production remained stable and there was no shortage of supply.

However, he did confirm that the availability of eggs would soon return to normal levels.

Regarding chicken supply, while he noted that there were no significant disruptions, the government has decided to temporarily import frozen chicken from various countries, including France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Brazil, to ensure market distribution.

Seeruttun pointed out that some retailers had reported shortages, prompting the Minister of Commerce to convene an inter-ministerial meeting involving the Ministry of Agro-industry, the Ministry of Labour, and egg producers to assess the situation.

He stated that producers have reassured the government that their production levels remain normal, with no increase in prices, although they are making efforts to boost output.

The minister cited data from Statistics Mauritius, indicating a 6.3% increase in egg consumption between 2022 and 2023.

He attributed this rising demand partly to the tourism sector, which, despite typically experiencing a decline during the winter season, has maintained stable visitor numbers, thus increasing the demand for eggs.

Seeruttun also provided insight into consumer behavior during this time, noting that panic buying after the Assumption Feast and the popularity of special cakes around this period contributed to the heightened demand for eggs, resulting in market shortages.

When discussing market prices, Seeruttun mentioned that major producers have assured the government that conditions would normalize after August 15.

He encouraged smaller poultry producers, beyond the larger importers, to engage in importing Parent Stock, which could be used to produce more laying hens for local farmers.

Regarding reported high prices, he noted that Commerce officers had conducted inspections and found that individual egg prices ranged from Rs 7.50 to Rs 12.

Concerning chicken, Seeruttun acknowledged a supply issue affecting certain regions of the island.

He clarified that the Agro-industry Ministry had looked into the situation and, similar to the egg supply chain, there are three main importers supplying broilers, which are sold as fresh chicken.

He indicated that import volumes had remained consistent, suggesting no major disruptions.

However, difficulties among suppliers and smaller distributors in meeting market demand may explain the shortages.

Seeruttun explained that while a slight decline in chicken production during winter is typical, the changing consumption patterns have led to an increased demand for chicken, particularly from restaurants and fast-food chains struggling to secure sufficient supplies.

To address these issues, the government has approved the temporary importation of frozen chicken from disease-free countries such as France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Brazil. A committee will soon be established to oversee import permits.

“The goal is to address the supply shortage in the market,” Seeruttun stated, adding that controlled imports will continue until the end of September to help suppliers meet demand.

When asked about potential price increases for imported chicken, Seeruttun reassured the press that this measure is intended to stabilize market prices.

Source: Le Maurcien