UAE Poultry Production Halts as Hormuz Blockage Triggers Feed Shortage

Small-scale poultry operations across the UAE face a production halt as a reported blockade in the Strait of Hormuz disrupts the critical supply of imported chicken feed. Local farmers warn that the shortage of maize and soy-based feed, largely sourced via maritime routes, has forced numerous independent facilities to suspend operations to avoid mass bird starvation. Supply Chain Disruption The Strait of Hormuz serves as the primary conduit for bulk grain shipments entering the Arabian Gulf. With feed prices escalating due to limited availability, small farms—which operate on thinner margins than large-scale industrial producers—are unable to absorb the rising costs. Industry reports indicate that while major domestic poultry brands maintain some strategic reserves, the sudden bottleneck has left smaller entities without viable alternatives. Impact on Local Markets The suspension of small farm activities threatens to reduce the domestic supply of fresh poultry and eggs, potentially leading to price volatility in local markets. UAE authorities have previously emphasized food security as a national priority; however, the reliance on imported feed components remains a structural…