Eggs may cost more as poultry farms cut output

KUALA LUMPUR: The cheapest source of protein may cost more as a shortage is looming after poultry farms slash production due to increasing costs, limited subsidies and a ceiling price to adhere to.

Egg-consuming individuals, families and businesses may need to fork out more for the nutrition powerhouse if no measure is taken to assist the farmers.

Malaysian Bakery, Biscuit, Confectionery, Mee and Kuay Teow Merchants Association president Lai Yee Kein said that in the case of a price change in eggs, businesses that use them, such as bakeries and eateries, would be affected the most.

“The situation will depend on the usage volume and consumption.

“Although one can always eat fewer eggs, it will eventually trickle down to the normal consumers like you and me,” he said yesterday.

According to Lai, a ceiling price system to control the prices of eggs will result in farmers producing fewer eggs to cut losses when costs go up, leading to a shortage.

“It is illogical not to let farmers adjust prices while the cost of raw materials has skyrocketed.

“The government should make the right decision because this concerns the country’s economy,” he said.

He added that a prolonged shortage could make things worse for farmers and consumers.

He said consumers should also understand the reasoning behind the price increase and not blame it on the farmers or businesses.

“Malaysia produces more than enough chicken and eggs for its citizens’ consumption, and we even export them.

“However, the pandemic and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict have brought about many problems, causing the price of chicken feed to go up.

“This is not something we can control,” he said, adding that the onus was on the government to keep the impact minimal.

With Malaysia’s poultry and egg industry being self-sufficient, Lai said the government should do more to assist farmers in times of need, especially when the country’s food security demands more attention.

“It is always better to be strong on our own without relying on outsiders. Our poultry industry should be prioritised and protected,” he added.

“All types of farmers should be taken care of along with the needs of the people according to the current economic development.

“Many used to think we can import when our food supply is low and take things for granted. Look at us now.

“Where are we heading amid this ongoing war in Ukraine and global inflation?” he said.