Discussions focused on overcoming challenges facing the poultry industry and promoting fair market competition for the benefit of both producers and consumers. Participants explored strategies to increase production and supply, ensuring that poultry products are available at reasonable prices nationwide.
A critical point of discussion was the urgent need to combat
rumours that could undermine this vital sector. Given the industry's
significant role in achieving food security and generating employment,
addressing misinformation is crucial to prevent harm to the national economy
and consumers, avoiding panic and potential declines in demand that could lead
to severe losses for breeders and investors.
Minister Farouk underscored the poultry sector's crucial
role in food security, reiterating the ministry's commitment to supporting its
growth. He highlighted the industry's considerable impact, noting it employs at
least 3 million workers and boasts investments exceeding 200 billion Egyptian
pounds. Farouk emphasized that the Egyptian state has implemented various
programs and initiatives for the sector's sustainable development.
He further noted that poultry production is a premier source
of animal protein, with Egypt achieving near self-sufficiency in recent years.
Annual production now stands at 1.5 billion birds and 15 billion eggs. The
government has provided comprehensive support to the industry, including plans
to improve efficiency, boost production, and offer technical, logistical, and
financial assistance to small-scale breeders. This support aims to enhance farm
efficiency, optimize performance, increase output, and encourage further
investment to meet citizens' protein needs.
The Head of the Egyptian Competition Authority (ECA)
detailed the Authority's efforts to foster a healthy competitive environment
and prevent monopolistic practices that could harm the market and consumers. He
emphasized the ECA's role in market regulation and ensuring fair competition
across all economic sectors, especially in vital areas like poultry. He
reiterated the state's dedication to guaranteeing fair prices for goods and
protecting consumer rights.
The Head of the General Union of Poultry Producers stressed
the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders to advance the industry
and address producer challenges. He affirmed the Egyptian poultry sector's
commitment to providing safe and healthy food while adhering to the highest
standards. He also underscored the Union's dedication to complying with the
Competition Protection Law to ensure free competition within this essential
market.
Engineer Tarek Tawfik of Cairo Poultry Company highlighted the value of constructive and ongoing dialogue between the government and producers. He expressed optimism about current efforts to improve the investment climate, believing it will lead to practical solutions that contribute to the sector's sustained growth and stability.