The Bangladesh Poultry Association (BPA) has announced a nationwide shutdown of egg and chicken production starting May 1, 2025, amid mounting losses incurred by small and marginal poultry farmers.
In a press release issued on Thursday(17 april). BPA stated that over BDT 1,260 crore in losses have been reported in the last two months, pushing thousands of small-scale poultry farmers to the brink of collapse. Despite high demand during Ramadan and Eid, farmers faced continued financial hardship, incurring around BDT 900 crore in losses in just one month, as they sold chicken at BDT 30 below production cost per kilogram.
“We will not accept corporate slavery,” said Md. Suman Hawlader, President of the BPA. “From May 1, poultry farms across Bangladesh will remain closed until the government takes action against the syndicate controlling the market.”
BPA’s 10-Point Demand to the Government
The association has issued a 10-point list of demands, emphasizing regulatory reform and support for marginal farmers. The demands include:
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Formation of a National Price Control Policy and a dedicated committee for poultry products.
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Ban on contract farming through strict legal enforcement.
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Establishment of a Poultry Market Regulatory Authority.
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Launch of a government rehabilitation package for affected poultry farmers.
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Implementation of a registration system and issuance of ID cards for all poultry farmers.
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Limiting corporate involvement to only raw material production.
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Prohibition of company-owned and contract-based poultry farms.
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Development of a weight-based pricing policy for eggs and chickens.
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Strategic steps to expand poultry export opportunities.
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Formation of a Poultry Development Board for long-term sectoral planning.
Why This Matters
Bangladesh’s poultry sector plays a vital role in ensuring food security and providing employment to millions. Industry experts warn that prolonged shutdowns could result in severe disruptions in the egg and chicken supply chain, price hikes, and long-term economic setbacks.
Unless urgent action is taken, the BPA warns that further nationwide protests and stricter programs will follow.