Dhaka, Jan. 25 -- A proposal to ban the import of day-old chicks for commercial poultry farms included in the final draft of the National Poultry Development Policy-2026 has triggered widespread concern among poultry farmers and industry leaders.

Stakeholders said small and marginal producers would bear the brunt of the decision if the ban is enforced without adequate preparation and capacity development.

They also fear the move could lead to monopolisation of the sector by a handful of large corporate players.

The government, however, says the policy is aimed at gradually reducing import dependence and making the domestic poultry industry self-reliant.

Farmers said domestic production capacity is still insufficient to meet demand.

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