JMA chicken concerns

The Jamaica Manufacturing Association (JMA) raised several questions over a decision by the government to grant licences for the importation of chicken parts.



President of the JMA, Omar Azan, said he is alarmed at the decision taken by the agriculture minister Dr. Christopher Tufton.



According to Mr. Azan, the agriculture ministry should be looking at exporting chicken in an effort to boost the industry rather than importation.



According to Mr. Azan the local poultry industry has enough chicken to meet the demand.



Mr. Azan said the importation is also contrary to the government’s mandate of creating more jobs and its campaign urging Jamaicans to eat what they grow and grow what they eat.



He said he will also be ensuring that the Bureau of Standards approves the chicken meat to ensure good quality before it is distributed.