Local Suppliers Engage in Heavy Lobbying to Prevent Chicken Imports

Jayen Chellum, prominent figure in consumer advocacy, addressed the ongoing challenges facing the chicken and egg market in Mauritius, highlighting the recent supply shortages and rising prices that have left many consumers struggling.

Supply and Demand Dynamics

Chellum noted a slight improvement in the egg market in terms of availability, with consumers now able to purchase eggs in most places, albeit with some persistent shortages in certain supermarkets.

However, he expressed concern about skyrocketing prices, which have made eggs increasingly unaffordable for low-income families.

In contrast, the situation regarding chicken remained precarious. Although the government had contemplated importing chicken to alleviate the shortage, plans were later abandoned.

The decline in supply has not completely subsided, but the intensity of the shortage has lessened.

Unfortunately, this lack of stable supply has allowed some retailers to exploit the situation by raising prices further.

Chellum pointed out that consumers have been caught off guard by these market disruptions, while some businesses have profited from the crisis.

Authorities’ Response to Complaints

In response to multiple complaints lodged by the Association of Consumers for Independent Mauritius (ACIM) regarding questionable pricing practices in the chicken and egg supply, Chellum expressed frustration over the lack of action from the Ministry of Commerce.

He detailed how the ACIM had sent letters as early as July addressing the egg shortage, followed by communications about the chicken supply crisis and the exorbitant pricing.

Although a meeting with senior officials from the Ministry was conducted, where further discussions were promised if the issues remained unresolved, Chellum lamented that the situation has not improved and that the Ministry has failed to follow up.

Efforts to schedule a follow-up meeting have been met with resistance.

Inquiry Request with the Competition Commission

Regarding the ACIM’s request to the Competition Commission for an investigation into these market practices, Chellum indicated that they received verbal confirmation that their request was acknowledged.

However, the official handling the matter is currently abroad. The ACIM has been assured that once this individual returns to Mauritius, the case will be addressed accordingly.

Proposed Solutions for Stabilizing the Market

When asked about concrete measures to stabilize the markets for chicken and eggs, Chellum suggested regulating egg supplies based on weight.

However, he acknowledged the limitations of the ACIM’s influence, stating that their primary role is to raise awareness and alert authorities to consumer concerns.

For the chicken market, Chellum advocated for importation as a potential solution. He emphasized that substantial lobbying from local suppliers is hindering this process; those suppliers often cite concerns about diseases and quality associated with imported chicken.

Chellum countered this argument by noting that Mauritius already imports other meats, such as beef and mutton, questioning why chicken should be any different.

He argued that importing chicken would ultimately benefit Mauritian consumers by providing access to more competitive prices and higher-quality products.

Source: Defi Media