Kuala lumpur: Chicken prices have remained stable since the removal of subsidies on Nov 1, 2023, the Dewan Rakyat was told today. Deputy Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Dr Fuziah Salleh addressed concerns regarding the price stability of chicken following the cessation of subsidies that were initially put in place to cap prices.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, prior to the subsidy removal, the market faced challenges with price control. Despite the government’s efforts to maintain a subsidised price cap, underlying issues affected the overall pricing stability. Dr Fuziah highlighted the role of chicken feed costs, which constitute 70% of production expenses, as a significant factor in the pricing dynamics.

Dr Fuziah explained that one of the key strategies implemented was targeting chicken feed cartels to manage and control production costs effectively. This intervention was crucial in maintaining price stability in the market post-subsidy.

Since the subsidy removal on Nov 1, 2023, the ministry has been vigilant in collecting daily chicken price data to ensure the effectiveness of these measures. Although subsidies are no longer in place, the ministry continues to regulate the supply chain and closely monitor chicken prices. To date, prices have stabilised, and in some instances, have even decreased, as reported by Dr Fuziah in response to a query from Mohammed Taufiq Johari (PH-Sungai Petani).