Chicken consumption in Europe has risen to a multi-year high

Global chicken consumption is set to grow by 2.5-3% this year, boosting the poultry industry’s prospects. This is the forecast made by Rabobank analysts.

They noted that the Asia-Pacific region and South Asia continue to drive expansion, while Europe is showing its highest consumption growth in many years (around 3-4%).

​​Demand, according to experts, is supported by the price competitiveness of poultry, improved availability due to new investments in new projects, favorable economic conditions, cultural preferences and ongoing product and market developments.

At the same time, the US, Mexico and Brazil are struggling with oversupply and low prices, which highlights the need for increased supply discipline.

Global trade growth remains limited (1-1.5%) as many countries, including Middle Eastern markets, China and parts of Asia, prioritize local production, while issues such as reciprocal US tariffs and a temporary export ban by Turkey add to the uncertainty.

The biggest uncertainty is the conflict in the Middle East, which could disrupt the global economy, push up feed prices and also affect poultry trade, as the Middle East is a key import market for Brazil, the EU, Ukraine and Russia.

“Another major risk is the food security of Gulf countries that depend on imports passing through the Strait of Hormuz, affecting imports of chicken for consumption in the Gulf region and trade in inputs for local production, such as feed and genetics. Alternative routes or managed sea travel could be crucial to ensuring local food security if disruptions persist,” experts explain.

Bird flu also remains a significant risk, with major outbreaks continuing in Northern Hemisphere countries and the disease gradually shifting south.

Tags: chicken, EU