Import pullets to meet demand for eggs - AIPA chief

by L. S. Ananda WEDAARACHCHI

The All Island Poultry Association (AIPA) called upon the Government to import 200,000 day-old pullets for poultry farmers as the local hatcheries were not able to cope with the demand.

AIPA President Dr. D. D. Wanasingha said that there is an urgent need for 200,000 day-old pullets.

The poultry industry is not strong enough to cater to the islandwide demand. The shortage of hens has led to the current scarcity of eggs, he said.

Meanwhile, 40 representatives of the poultry industry who met the Animal Production and Health Director General last week pressed for the import of day-old pullets as early as possible.

A department spokesman said the matter was receiving serious attention.

Rules and regulations would be strictly complied with in the event of pullets being imported in future, he said.

Meanwhile, the Government has decided to import eggs to arrest the rising egg prices in the market. The poultry industry produces only 75 million eggs annually despite the country's need for 100 million eggs, a Cooperative and Trade Ministry spokesman said. The retail price of an egg is Rs. 16 or more in the open market at present.

Dr. Wanasingha said however that there was no scarcity of chicken in the country since the industry produces 10,000 mt. of chicken per month while the country needs only 9,500 mt.