Jamaican consumers grappling with a nationwide chicken shortage are anticipated to find relief as early as this week, according to a statement from Agriculture Minister Floyd Green. The supply chain disruption originated from the catastrophic impact of Category 5 Hurricane Melissa, which made landfall on October 28, 2025, resulting in the loss of over 700,000 broiler birds and significant damage to agricultural infrastructure across the island.
Minister Green provided reassurances during his appearance on the Jamaica Observer’s Market Bag segment, noting that despite the devastation, strategic inventory management by major poultry companies ensured uninterrupted supply during the Christmas season. However, the convergence of school reopenings and resurgent tourism activity has intensified demand, creating temporary market shortages. The agriculture ministry projects market stabilization within days, with supply levels expected to meet consumer demand patterns shortly.
The hurricane’s aftermath revealed critical vulnerabilities in Jamaica’s poultry production cycle, particularly in the availability of day-old chicks. Kenoiy Blair, a St. Catherine poultry farmer, reported extended waiting periods of up to four weeks for chick deliveries—a significant increase from the industry’s standard turnaround time. Blair attributed his relatively better access to a decade-long relationship with supplier Nutramix, which prioritizes established clients during supply constraints.
This sentiment was echoed by Clarendon livestock farmer Orlando Brinique, who maintained regular stock availability through longstanding supplier relationships. However, Brinique noted concerning quality issues, with current chick batches registering substantially underweight measurements compared to pre-hurricane standards, potentially affecting growth rates and production timelines.
The supply crisis has transformed market dynamics, as described by St. Catherine poultry farmer Cleo Jones. Consumer behavior has shifted dramatically, with customers traveling from distant parishes like Hanover and willing to wait on farms during harvesting. Restaurant purchasing patterns have also changed, with establishments traditionally operating on credit terms now offering immediate cash payments to secure limited supplies.
While the shortage peaked between mid-December and mid-January, farmers report gradual improvement in chick availability, indicating the beginning of industry recovery from Hurricane Melissa’s agricultural impact.