Burkina Faso halts import of broiler chicks to support local production

BURKINA FASO – Burkina Faso has suspended the importation of broiler chicks in a new move aimed at promoting self-sufficiency and strengthening the country’s poultry industry.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Resources and Fisheries announced the measure on Friday, October 3, through a press statement confirming that all import permits for broiler chicks have been halted until further notice.

According to the ministry, the Directorate General of Veterinary Services will not issue any new import authorizations, as recent evaluations show that domestic hatcheries can fully meet the needs of poultry producers.

The suspension applies to all types of chicks bred for meat production, regardless of their breed or strain, as part of the government’s plan to rely more on local suppliers.

Authorities explained that the decision is designed to reduce dependence on foreign imports and to create space for new local and foreign investors in the sector.

They added that eliminating imports will encourage domestic hatcheries to expand their production capacity and gradually replace imported volumes with locally produced chicks.

Between 2020 and 2024, Burkina Faso imported an average of US$736,000 worth of broiler chicks annually, according to data from the Trade Map platform.

The country recorded its highest import value in 2024, reaching about US$1.06 million, with Morocco, Belgium, France, and Turkey serving as key suppliers.

This suspension is part of Burkina Faso’s broader efforts to achieve food sovereignty, particularly in its livestock sector, where poultry farming accounts for nearly half of the national livestock population.

Poultry remains a key pillar in agriculture

Poultry production represents about 6 percent of the country’s agricultural value added, highlighting its role in both rural livelihoods and national food supply.

The country produces more than 140,000 tonnes of poultry meat and about 6,000 tonnes of eggs each year, figures that have shown steady growth over the past decade.

The value of poultry output was estimated at around US$80 million in 2009 and rose to over US$140 million in 2011, reflecting gradual sector expansion before the current policy shift.

Alongside cattle, poultry remains a central component of Burkina Faso’s livestock economy, accounting for roughly 16.5 percent of total meat consumption nationwide.

While the import ban may create short-term supply adjustments, government officials maintain that the local industry has sufficient capacity to sustain production levels.

The Ministry of Agriculture stated that this measure will remain in place until a further review confirms whether local production can consistently meet demand without reliance on imports.

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