PUL-I-KHUMRI (Pajhwok): The Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock Department of northern Baghlan says that there are currently 300 poultry farms operating in the province, producing approximately 9,000 metric tons of poultry meat annually.
However, farm owners have expressed concerns about the rising prices of poultry feed and medicine.
Wali Amarkhil, the department's spokesman, told Pajhwok Afghan News that the number of poultry farms in the province has increased, making Baghlan self-sufficient in poultry meat production.
"The number of poultry farms in Baghlan has reached 300, and they produce 9,000 metric tons of meat annually. This not only meets the province's needs but is also exported to neighboring provinces," he explained.
Amarkhil added that these 300 farms have directly employed 1,500 people.
He further noted that, in the past, poultry meat had to be imported into Baghlan from Kabul, Nangarhar, and other provinces, which made it more expensive. However, with the establishment of local poultry farms, the demand for meat is met within the province.
On the other hand, poultry farm owners have acknowledged that while the increase in poultry farms has led to a reduction in the price of poultry meat, the cost of raising chickens has risen significantly.
Mohammad Dian, a local farm owner, explained that while the number of poultry farms has increased, the profits have decreased.
"Although poultry production has risen with the increase in farms, the price of poultry meat has fallen. One kilogram of chicken costs 135 afghanis, but the prices of poultry feed and medicine has nearly doubled, which has cut into our profits," he said.
He added that the price of a bag of poultry feed has risen from 1,400 afghanis to 2,300 afghanis, and the cost of medicine has also increased.
He added that, when fuel costs are included, the expense per kilogram of chicken reaches 120 afghanis, making it difficult for farm owners to cover their costs at the current market price.
Farm owners are urging the government to assist in controlling the prices of poultry feed and medicine, as well as in regulating the market.
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