Rising Chicken Prices Shake Consumer Demand
Syria’s poultry sector is currently experiencing a major crisis, with chicken prices rising sharply and placing additional pressure on consumers. Over the past month, retail chicken prices have increased by nearly 30 percent, significantly affecting market demand and affordability.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!According to local market data reported by SANA, the average price of chicken has climbed to approximately 30,000 Syrian pounds per kilogram, compared to around 22,000 Syrian pounds just weeks earlier. This sudden increase reflects deeper structural challenges within the country’s poultry supply chain.
Newcastle Disease Outbreaks Impact Poultry Farms
One of the key factors behind the crisis is the widespread outbreak of Newcastle disease across multiple poultry farms. Veterinary experts have confirmed that the disease has affected production levels, leading to supply disruptions.
Although Newcastle disease does not pose a direct risk to human health, concerns have grown among consumers due to limited transparency and inconsistent communication from authorities. Reports indicate that public confidence has weakened amid circulating rumors about the safety of poultry products.
In response, Syria’s Ministry of Health has issued official assurances stating that poultry available in markets is safe for consumption. However, trust issues continue to influence buying behavior.
Cheap Imports Add Pressure on Local Farmers
The situation has been further complicated by government approval of poultry imports in late 2025. The influx of low-cost frozen chicken, chicks, and hatching eggs has intensified competition for local producers.
Industry stakeholders report that the market is now oversupplied, forcing many farmers to reconsider their production strategies. Some poultry breeders are even considering early culling of flocks due to unsustainable operational conditions.
Despite higher retail prices, many farmers are still facing financial losses, highlighting the imbalance between production costs and market returns.
Feed Costs Surge Amid Regional Conflict
Another major challenge confronting the sector is the rising cost of poultry feed. The ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran have disrupted supply chains and increased the cost of imported raw materials.
Syria relies heavily on imports for key feed ingredients such as corn and soybean. Recent market trends show that feed prices have increased by approximately 20 to 25 percent, further squeezing profit margins for poultry producers.
Sector Under Severe Stress
Industry officials have confirmed that several poultry farms have suspended operations in recent months due to financial and operational pressures. The combined impact of disease outbreaks, rising feed costs, import competition, and declining consumer confidence has pushed the Syrian poultry sector into a critical phase.
Experts warn that without policy support, improved disease management, and stabilization of input costs, the sector may face prolonged instability.