The Comoros is making significant strides in egg production, with local output now covering 85% of the country's needs. According to data from the avian sector, the nation produces approximately 74,518 eggs per day, or around 2,484 trays of 30 eggs. This progress has enabled the country to reduce its reliance on imports, which have been a subject of concern due to the questionable quality of some products.
Consumer complaints about the quality of imported eggs have been mounting, with many denouncing the presence of dubious products in the market. Despite these concerns, imports from countries such as India and Tanzania continue. However, the authorities have been working to address these issues, with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Livestock, and Handicrafts reporting a decline in import volumes. Egg imports decreased from 278 tonnes in 2023 to 248 tonnes in 2024 and further to 168 tonnes in 2025.
The government has set an ambitious goal to achieve self-sufficiency in egg production by the first quarter of 2027. Fouad Mohamed, Director National des Stratégies Agricoles, outlined the plans, which include constructing a warehouse to increase storage capacity and reduce price fluctuations. Additionally, large-capacity poultry farms are being built to accommodate 1,000 chicks, further boosting production.
While progress has been made in egg production, the poultry sector still faces significant challenges. The growth achieved so far is primarily limited to egg production and has not yet translated into substantial growth in the broiler sector. To sustainably develop this sector, stakeholders must continue to support farmers, improve marketing channels, and facilitate access to feed.
The Ministry of Agriculture plans to launch investments in 2027 to develop local broiler production. These investments will focus on setting up an industrial slaughterhouse, a chick incubator, and a feed production unit through a national program structure. This initiative aims to strengthen the poultry sector and reduce the country's reliance on imports.
The Comoros' agricultural sector has shown resilience, with the egg production sector experiencing notable growth. The rate of lay has been estimated at nearly 80%, equivalent to around 80 eggs produced daily per 100 hens. This achievement demonstrates the potential for the country to become self-sufficient in egg production and eventually expand its poultry sector.
As the Comoros continues to work towards its goal of self-sufficiency in egg production, the government and stakeholders must address the remaining challenges in the poultry sector. With careful planning and investment, the country can consolidate its gains and ensure a stable and sustainable food supply for its population. Key initiatives, such as the construction of new poultry farms and the development of local broiler production, will be crucial in achieving this objective.
Key points
- The Comoros aims to achieve self-sufficiency in egg production by the first quarter of 2027.
- Local egg production now covers 85% of the country's needs.
- Investments will be launched in 2027 to develop local broiler production.
