Chicken prices hit record Rs 350/kg in AP

Visakhapatnam: Broiler chicken prices in Andhra Pradesh have soared to an unprecedented Rs 350 per kg in several markets. Country chicken rates, too, have been climbing steadily over the past two weeks. Traders warn that prices may rise further as demand continues to outpace supply.With the onset of summer, retail chicken prices have spiked across the state, hovering between Rs 340 and Rs 360 per kg. Meat traders predict further escalation as chick production drops sharply under scorching temperatures.On March 24, broiler chicken touched Rs 350 per kg in retail markets, driven by increased consumption, reduced supply, rising feed costs, and extreme heat. Just two weeks earlier, skinless broiler was around Rs 300 per kg, while boneless chicken sold at Rs 500 per kg.Poultry association members attribute the surge to low production caused by hot weather. Prices are expected to climb further as hatchery losses mount under humid conditions.Country chicken, which sold at Rs 800 per kg on March 1, now fetches Rs 1,200 per kg in parts of the state.Consumption rose nearly 20% during Ramzan and local deity festivals in March, while supply fell by about 30%, pushing broiler prices to the current peak. Meanwhile, mutton and chevon remained steady at ₹900–₹1,000 per kg, according to Vizag meat trader Sk Subhan.Egg prices, however, stayed stable at Rs 6 per piece, with country eggs selling between Rs 15–Rs 20 per piece due to steady demand and reduced exports.