On March 3, 2025, poultry prices across Egypt experienced notable declines just as the holy month of Ramadan begins. This shift marks significant interest among Egyptian homemakers, as many seek to sustain their families with affordable sources of protein during this period. The price for white chicks, which serve as the mainstay for household protein needs, has fluctuated considerably, leading to increased inquiries and strategies around home poultry farming.
According to reports, the price of white chicks, known locally as كتكوت (ktakoot), ranged from 26 to 26.5 Egyptian pounds on this date. The price within the poultry exchange market was reported to be slightly higher, fluctuated between 43 and 48 pounds, reflecting the economic adjustments typical at the start of Ramadan.
Prices for other varieties of chicks also reflect these trends. The baladi chicks now stand between 6.5 and 7 pounds; hejin chicks are priced at 8 to 9 pounds; and the Jil Thani variety is found between 10 and 11 pounds. Meanwhile, the Sasso Biur and Sasso Amr Youm chicks go for 13 to 14 pounds, whereas the Rozi Biur chicks reach up to 16 pounds.
For poultry meat, the situation presents similar fluctuations. The exchange market indicates the price for white chicken (فرخ) per kilo is approximately 91 pounds. Consumers face retail price variations from 91 to 99 pounds depending on the market. Baladi chicken presents a steeper price at around 125 pounds per kilo, with sales to consumers between 125 and 132 pounds. The egg market also shows activity; red egg cartons range from 160 to 165 pounds, white egg cartons between 155 and 160 pounds, and baladi egg cartons from 160 to 165 pounds.
The appetite for poultry products remains high during Ramadan, as families traditionally incorporate these proteins throughout their meals. This enhanced demand often leads to raised prices, echoing not just seasonal surges but also cultural significance. Many homemakers, aiming to provide quality nutrition for their families during this revered period, turn to raising chicks themselves. One local market expert observed, "With the onset of Ramadan, many homemakers are turning to raising chicks at home to manage their budgets and provide fresh poultry for their families." This perspective captures the practical response to both economic and nutritional challenges.
Meanwhile, sellers and farmers remain vigilant about market dynamics, adapting their sales strategies to remain competitive. Differences between local market prices and the comprehensive poultry exchange offer insights on potential growth or adjustments required within this sector as Ramadan continues.
Local trends suggest a potential rise in interest surrounding home-raised poultry as more families try to navigate the challenges of rising grocery bills by opting for self-sufficiency. This approach not only encourages families to engage more closely with food sources but offers opportunities for learning and community engagement as they share information on raising healthy chicks suitable for future consumption.
Overall, as Ramadan progresses, all attention will turn to market supply levels, commodity pricing, and consumer purchasing patterns. The intersect of cultural observance and economic strategy ensures the desire for affording protein sources remains pertinent just as the month of fasting deepens.
Consumers and producers alike are adopting fresh strategies to adapt to the fluctuational environment. The dynamics of the poultry market, shaped by cultural traditions and economic pressures alike, suggest continuous evolution over the month, necessitating close monitoring by all involved stakeholders.