The government has warned poultry companies and retailers not to inflate chicken prices. Photo: 123rf
A top poultry company in Fiji has given its assurance that there will be enough supply of chicken to meet the demand from the public during the festive season.
According to a news report by the state broadcaster FBC, this assurance follows concerns raised by consumers about the shortage of chicken.
Leading food manufacturing company Goodman Fielder general manager Tim Carter said it is working both internally and externally to ensure a consistent supply of chicken for Christmas.
"We're working internally to ensure that we have sufficient supply of chicken to support the demand. There is extra demand going into Christmas," Carter was quoted as saying.
Carter also told FBC the company is confident that there will not be any shortage of chicken, as they are collaborating with other poultry companies in the poultry association.
The state broadcaster reports that consumers have been advised to be cautious of inflated chicken prices by retailers.
Last month, Deputy Prime Minsiter and Minister for Finance Biman Prasad said the government is "providing significant duty protection and import restriction" for whole chicken, and warned producers not to hike prices.
"If there are unscrupulous price settings happening between the producers and the retailers, then the government will have no option, but to put up price control, and the government will also consider opening up the import of whole chicken from overseas," he said.
