KARACHI — Poultry prices across Karachi have seen a notable decline in recent weeks, following the closure of borders with Afghanistan that has temporarily halted the trade of poultry products.
Consumers in local markets expressed surprise at the sudden fall in rates, with some speculating that a disease among the birds might be responsible. However, Sindh Poultry Wholesalers Association (SPWA) General Secretary Kamal Akhtar Siddiqui dismissed these claims, attributing the decline to the suspension of poultry exports including birds, feed, and eggs to Afghanistan.
Currently, live poultry is being sold at Rs350–370 per kilogram, down from Rs460–540 per kg in September. During mid-October, when the border closure began, rates dropped further to Rs310–360 per kg, while boneless chicken is now available at Rs700–800 per kg compared to Rs1,000–1,100 in September. Poultry with giblets is priced between Rs400–480 per kg, while clean meat is being sold at Rs530–580 per kg.
SPWA officials noted that the price differences across retail outlets largely reflect variations in bird quality and meat standards. Although the Karachi commissioner issued official rates of Rs288 per kg for live birds and Rs435 per kg for boneless meat on November 23, many retailers continue to sell at higher prices due to the absence of a strict enforcement mechanism.
Despite the reduction in raw poultry prices, the cost of prepared chicken dishes at eateries and restaurants, such as chicken tikka, broasted chicken, Seekh kebabs, Boti, and Chinese dishes, has remained high. One kilogram of chicken karahi, for instance, still costs Rs2,000–2,200 — nearly three times the rate of live birds.
Siddiqui emphasized that chicken remains more affordable than red meat, offering relief to low- and middle-income consumers. Mutton is sold at Rs2,300–2,500 per kg, while veal (bachia) ranges from Rs1,400–1,600 per kg. He urged authorities to ensure that the recent drop in poultry prices is reflected in restaurant menus, so consumers can benefit from the relief.
