Meat prices rose in Phnom Penh’s markets today on the back of soaring demand ahead of Chinese New Year.

Chicken Farmers’ Association president Chhay Sok Huon said some 30,000 chickens were consumed by Cambodians on an average day, but the number could climb as high as 300,000 birds a day during the holidays – which run until February 5.

“Many Cambodian and Chinese people offer food to their ancestors during the holiday,” he said today.

O’Russei Market shopper Chan Nary said she bought chicken at 24,000 riel per

kilogramme today, adding it normally cost 18,000 riel per kilogramme.

“I am not Chinese or Vietnamese but having seen most of my neighbours and relatives offering food to their ancestors during [Chinese] New Year, I just follow suit,” she said.

Vendor Sok Ieng said boiled chicken was fetching up to 30,000 riel per kilogramme, up from 16,000 riel normally.

Pork and duck meat had also increased in price, but not as dramatically, he added.

Cambodian Pig Raisers’ Association director Srun Pov said 5,000 swine would be consumed daily during New Year, up from 4,000 normally.