Rising Poultry Prices Spark Outrage in Morocco
In the outskirts of Rabat, a Moroccan citizen recently inquired about the price of a kilogram of live turkey chicken, only to leave empty-handed after learning it costs 27 dirhams (approximately $2.7). This situation reflects a growing dissatisfaction among Moroccans regarding the soaring prices of poultry and other essential food items. White meat, a staple in Moroccan households, is under scrutiny as citizens express their frustrations on social media, calling for a boycott until prices decrease. The summer season, typically associated with weddings and family gatherings, has intensified the urgency of the situation as families struggle to afford traditional dishes that include both white and red meat.
Factors Behind the Surge in Food Prices
Mustafa Al-Montaser, head of the National Association of Poultry Meat Producers, attributes the rising costs of poultry to several factors, including a significant 25% decrease in productivity due to high temperatures and increased demand as consumers shift from red to white meat due to its affordability. The aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic has also exacerbated the situation, with feed prices remaining high in Morocco despite global decreases. Al-Montaser warns that without proper investment in the sector, the situation will worsen, leading to higher prices in the future. Currently, the weekly production of white meat has dropped to 8 million chickens, a stark contrast to the usual 9.2 million.
Government Response and Future Outlook
In response to the growing unrest, the Moroccan government has initiated meetings with agricultural professionals to address food security and production challenges. Measures discussed include supporting livestock feed and developing drought-resistant fodder crops. The Minister of Agriculture emphasized the urgency of ensuring the national market is supplied with red meat and milk, while also facilitating the import of animal feed. As citizens brace for continued high prices, experts predict that while white meat prices may stabilize by mid-September, red meat prices are unlikely to decrease in the near future. This situation highlights the critical need for government intervention to protect consumers and stabilize the market.
