Morocco Bolsters Poultry Supply Chain as Ramadan 1446 Approaches

Sunday 05 January 2025 - 08:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco Bolsters Poultry Supply Chain as Ramadan 1446 Approaches

Morocco's agricultural ministry is taking proactive steps to ensure stable poultry supplies and pricing ahead of Ramadan 1446. Agriculture Minister Ahmed El Bouari recently convened with poultry sector professionals to evaluate production levels, supply chains, and price stabilization strategies in anticipation of increased demand during the holy month.

According to the Moroccan Interprofessional Federation of the Poultry Sector (FISA), the industry has shown notable growth in several key areas. By October 2024, one-day-old broiler chick placements reached 391.137 million, marking a 5% increase from the previous year's 370.946 million. Turkey poult placements demonstrated even stronger growth, with a 17% increase to 14.306 million units.

However, the sector faced some challenges, particularly in pullet placements, which decreased by 12% to 11.893 million units. FISA attributes this decline to extended rearing periods for laying hens, which increased from 75-80 weeks in 2023 to 90-100 weeks in 2024.

Despite these mixed indicators, overall production metrics remain positive. National poultry meat production reached 735,000 tons by October 2024, showing a 6% increase from the previous year. Table egg production also grew by 4%, reaching 5.5 billion units.

The ministry acknowledges that market prices continue to be influenced by supply and demand dynamics, with intermediaries playing a significant role in price fluctuations. To address these challenges, officials are promoting several strategic initiatives, including:
- Encouraging aggregation and integrated ecosystems
- Reducing marginal costs
- Promoting industrial slaughterhouse development
- Establishing grandparent breeding farms for broilers to reduce import dependency

The Moroccan Competition Council has launched an investigation into pricing practices within the poultry feed market to ensure fair competition and protect consumers from potential price distortions. This initiative is particularly significant as poultry remains a crucial ingredient in traditional Moroccan dishes, especially during Ramadan.

These comprehensive measures reflect Morocco's commitment to maintaining food security and price stability in this essential market sector, particularly during the significant religious observance period ahead.