LAHORE: In a controversial decision, the Punjab government has announced the deregulation of chicken prices across the province, a move that allows poultry traders to set their own prices starting after Eidul Fitr. The decision, formalized through an order by the Director General (Research) at the Provincial Controller General of Prices, has stirred a wave of discontent among consumers who are concerned about rising prices.
Before the deregulation, chicken was being sold at a regulated price of Rs595 per kilogram, a rate that was to remain in place until the end of the Eid holidays. However, under the new order, following deliberations at the 6th meeting of the Price Control Council, only live chicken rates will be announced, leaving the price of chicken meat unregulated. This marks a departure from the previous system, where both live and meat prices were controlled by the government.
The decision has sparked widespread protests among consumers, who argue that the deregulation will lead to higher prices for chicken, placing an additional financial burden on families already grappling with inflation. Consumer groups have called on the government to reinstate regulated pricing and enforce stronger price controls to prevent market manipulation by poultry traders.
On the other hand, poultry traders have expressed their support for the deregulation, as it allows them to adjust prices based on market dynamics and demand fluctuations. This newfound freedom is seen as a positive development for the industry, which had previously been constrained by government-imposed price ceilings.
The Price Control and Commodities Department has defended the move, stating that it aligns with the Punjab Price Control of Essential Commodities Act 2024, which aims to modernize and streamline pricing mechanisms for essential goods. While the government maintains that the deregulation is intended to foster a more competitive market, it remains to be seen how this will impact both consumers and the poultry industry in the coming months.
As the new pricing structure takes effect, consumers, poultry traders, and government officials will be closely monitoring the situation to determine if this deregulation leads to a more balanced market or if further intervention will be required to protect public interests.
