The Bangladesh Poultry Association on Sunday announced that marginal poultry farms across the country would cease production of broiler chickens and eggs starting from January 1, 2025 if the government failed to address their demands and curb influence of corporate syndicates.
The BPA expressed deep concern over the growing dominance of corporate entities in the poultry sector and said that they had destabilised the market for chicken and eggs, according to a press release.
According to the BPA, despite numerous appeals to the government to take action, little attention has been given to the struggles of small-scale poultry farmers.
Instead, the association claims that the government was indirectly supporting corporate syndicates, exacerbating the challenges faced by marginal farmers.
The association emphasised that without immediate and effective measures, marginal poultry farmers would be forced to take drastic actions. 鈥業f the government does not take necessary steps, we will be compelled to shut down poultry farms in all districts and upazilas from January 1, 2025,鈥� the BPA stated.
Corporate dominance caused significant financial losses for marginal farmers, threatening their survival and creating a ripple effect on the nation鈥檚 food security, employment and economy, the release said.
The association warned that if the government did not intervene promptly, the long-term damage to the poultry sector could be irreversible.
鈥楾he crisis has already put the livelihoods of approximately five million people at risk, many of whom rely on the industry for their income,鈥� the BPA added in the press release.
The BPA highlighted the urgent need for fair market conditions, affordable access to resources and specific policies to limit the overwhelming influence of corporate companies.
They also stressed that the survival of marginal farmers was crucial for maintaining a stable supply chain in the poultry sector and ensuring food security for the country.
The BPA urged the government to prioritise the needs of small-scale farmers.
They warned that failure to address these issues could have devastating consequences for the industry and the national economy, the release said.