Ukraine: Power outages a threat to the poultry sector

Ukraine is currently experiencing one of its worst power outages, with Russia reportedly cutting off about 60 percent of the country's generating capacity, leading to rolling blackouts. The situation is particularly challenging for the poultry sector, with farms facing power outages for an average of 7-10 hours a day, and in some cases as many as 20 hours a day in the winter. These outages are increasing production costs and threatening the viability of the sector, as they interfere with the strict technological requirements of poultry production, including incubation and feeding. The situation is also impacting trade and storage, as poultry carcasses require specific temperature and condition maintenance. The Ukrainian Poultry Breeders Association's executive director, Serhiy Karpenko, noted that the entire poultry sector is being affected, regardless of the production stage. The situation may provide opportunities for other poultry sectors, such as Poland, but the European market is also influenced by Brazil and Thailand.