The poultry industry in the Caribbean is the single largest agribusiness sector in the region, supplying over 82 per cent of the region’s animal protein dietary needs according to the Caribbean Poultry Association (CPA).
Caricom chair and President of Guyana Irfaan Ali has pointed out that the import of poultry meat is the region's third most expensive import product, at a value of US$750 million.
In TT, the agricultural sector, with poultry as its mainstay, contributes significantly to the nation's GDP.
With a consumption rate of a million chickens per year, comprising 750,000 locally produced and 250,000 imported, the sector's health is a matter of national importance.
However, despite its significant contribution to the GDP and employment, the poultry industry faces numerous challenges that affect both contracted and non-contracted farmers.
These challenges range from financial strains and modernisation hurdles to environmental impacts and issues with governmental support.
The poultry industry is at a crossroads, balancing between sustaining local production and managing competition from imports.
Industry insights
The poultry sector recorded expansion in the number of broilers produced during fiscal 2023 when compared to the same period in fiscal 2022.
In 2023, 43,946,152 broiler heads were produced, up from 43,495,834 in 2022.
This increase in broiler production can be attributed to an increase in demand for chickens by the fast-food industry and the growing trend by grocery chains to offer pre-cooked and ready-to-eat chicken to customers.
The sector also plays a crucial role in employment, directly supporting tens of thousands of regional jobs.
Market dynamics and industry sentiments
President of the Broiler Growers Association Sudesh Ramkissoon said the poultry industry is experiencing a decline in attractiveness to younger generations, with many potential farmers deterred by the high entry costs and shrinking opportunities.
“The industry is getting harder,” Ramkissoon said. “A lot of current farmers feel trapped, because this field can accumulate a lot of debt.”
Ramkissoon said second- and third-generation farmers are not interested in continuing in the field.
Contracted farmers, such as Ramkissoon, who get paid every 90 days, face financial instability.
Notably, there is a gradual phasing out of contracted farmers in favour of company-owned farms.
Contracted farmers
Speaking with Business Day, Ramkissoon highlighted several critical challenges faced by those under contract with larger companies.
Low remuneration rates make it difficult for farmers to sustain their operations and maintain profitability.
“In the value chain of the industry, we generate the least amount of revenue, despite being the ones who hold the chickens for the longest,” Ramkissoon said.
“After they stay in the hatchery for 21 days, farmers actually keep them for six weeks before they’re sent to the processing plant,” he explained.
Attempts to rally for better payment have led to threats ag
