Pakistan’s poultry feed market has come under pressure following a sharp decline in corn prices driven by the arrival of the new crop. Feed costs and day-old chick (DOC) prices have both weakened as supply conditions improve and demand remains relatively subdued.
Corn prices have fallen significantly in a short period, dropping from around Rs 3,300 per maund to nearly Rs 2,400 per maund within two weeks. This decline has directly impacted feed manufacturing costs, resulting in a reduction of approximately Rs 200 per bag in feed prices, while DOC prices have also fallen by about Rs 15.
New Crop Arrival Drives Price Correction
The primary factor behind the price decline is the arrival of the new corn harvest in the market. Increased supply has eased earlier tightness, putting downward pressure on raw material prices across the poultry value chain.
At the same time, slower purchasing activity from poultry growers has contributed to softer demand, further reinforcing the bearish trend in feed and DOC pricing.
Strong Production Outlook Expected This Season
Favorable weather conditions and an expansion in cultivated area have kept this year’s corn crop outlook highly positive. Farmers have planted approximately 690,000 hectares of corn, and this acreage will support record production levels.
Unlike last year, the crop has not faced significant heat stress during key growth stages. Although some areas have reported localized hailstorm damage, farmers continue to maintain overall healthy crop conditions, supporting strong yield expectations.
Market Faces Short-Term Bearish Pressure
The combination of higher supply and strong production prospects has created downward pressure on domestic corn prices, which are currently under correction following the harvest peak.
In the short term, the market is expected to remain soft as additional supplies continue to enter the system and feed manufacturers adjust procurement strategies.
Export Potential May Provide Support
Despite the current bearish trend, export opportunities could play a stabilizing role in the coming months. Corn export prices are currently quoted in the range of $250 to $255 per metric ton, indicating potential competitiveness in international markets.
If export demand increases, it could help absorb surplus domestic production, provide price support to farmers, and contribute positively to foreign exchange inflows.
Outlook
Overall, Pakistan’s corn market is currently experiencing a seasonal supply-driven downturn, supported by strong production expectations and improved crop conditions.
However, the market outlook may improve if export channels strengthen and help balance excess supply in the domestic system. Going forward, price trends will depend on the pace of arrivals, poultry sector demand, and international corn trade dynamics.
Conclusion
Abundant supply and favorable growing conditions have created short-term pressure on corn and feed-related markets. While prices have softened across the value chain, the strong production outlook highlights Pakistan’s potential to meet domestic needs comfortably and possibly expand export activity if global demand remains supportive.
The Agri-Crop editorial team comprises commodity market analysts, rice trade specialists, and agriculture industry professionals based in Pakistan. We track daily price movements, export data, and policy developments across Pakistan’s key agricultural sectors.
