Poultry Farmer associations allege egg mafia

COLOMBO (News 1st); Organizations for protecting Poultry Farmers allege an egg mafia is currently taking place.

Sanjeeva Karunasagara, the Convener of Organizations for protecting Poultry Farmers alleged that eggs can be sold at a lower price than its current price if the required ingredients for feed is imported. 

Accordingly, Karunasagara said that corn, by products of soy and other nutrients should be imported in adequate amounts, and a  network should be created to monitor distribution of the said ingredients among small and medium scale farmers.

He further stated that certain groups attempt to control the supply chain and sell eggs for extreme prices, which in turn affects small and medium scale farmers.

Meanwhile, the President of the Association of Government Veterinary Officers, Sisira Piyasiri mentioned that according to the calculations of the Department of Animal produce and health, the price of eggs remain at Rs. 45 and warned for external parties not to allow for what they have built so far to be destroyed.

In the meantime, farmers alleged that with the creation of a control price for eggs, a shortage of artificial eggs has emerged in the market and egg retailers said that   they can no longer affors to purchase eggs at a loss.

Minister of Trade, Industry and Food Security, Nalin Fernando previously said that raids are being conducted seeking vendors who are selling eggs at higher prices, despite Poultry farmers disagreeing with the MRP implemented.