Samah El-Sayed, head of the Poultry Division at the General Federation of Chambers of Commerce, confirmed that he did not issue any statement indicating that the Minister of Agriculture decided to implement Law No. 70 of 2009 regarding the ban on trading live birds in Giza Governorate.

El-Sayed explained that what actually happened is that the Minister of Agriculture previously confirmed that the matter was discussed and that the ministry is studying implementation mechanisms as part of the plan to develop and advance the poultry industry, taking into account the interests of both producers and consumers.

The division head pointed out that the poultry sector has witnessed a real boom and a noticeable increase in production volume during the past period thanks to the ministry’s efforts, noting that the goal of studying the law is to preserve the poultry wealth as the main and cheapest source of animal protein for the Egyptian citizen.

El-Sayed added that if the law is implemented, it will contribute to the continuation of small farms and small producers and ensure the protection of breeders from heavy losses, especially amid the price crises borne by small producers, unlike large companies that have integrated production systems.

He continued: “I wholeheartedly support the producer and do not wish him any losses, but rather seek to develop the industry to ensure his work safely away from any market manipulations.”

He also explained that implementing the law will enable the inclusion of poultry prices in the Egyptian commodity exchange, ensuring a fair price for breeders and producers, and turning poultry into a storable commodity as is done in various countries around the world.

The head of the poultry division emphasized that the law is still under study by the ministry and relevant authorities, and that the public interest is the main compass in any decision related to the poultry industry.