“It’s not selling and chicken prices are sky-high,” is the phrase that has been heard among chicken sellers in recent weeks in various local markets in the Dominican Republic.
What was once a staple food on family tables has now become an inaccessible luxury for many, due to the abrupt increase in prices that has left merchants in a desperate situation, seeing their products remain on the counters without finding buyers.
Such is the case of Felicia Rumano, who has been dedicated to meat marketing for more than 30 years and today depends on this activity to survive.
“There is no money. Why is it so expensive if there is no money in circulation? Today we are at 30 and I haven’t come at all,” he said.
Meanwhile, another complaint that persists among chicken merchants is the shortage of chicken.
This phenomenon has been attributed to several factors, including heat.
“There is no chicken at the moment. Before, suppliers would bring me up to 50 pounds and now they only give me 30,” explained Joan Carlos.
The situation not only affects sellers, but also consumerswho are forced to look for cheaper alternatives to feed their families.
Faced with this problem, vendors are urgently calling on the authorities to take measures to stabilize prices and allow chicken to once again become an affordable food for everyone.