Germany may increase poultry meat imports as consumption is projected to rise by 50%

Poultry meat consumption in Germany could increase by 50% by 2040, putting additional pressure on domestic production and increasing the country’s dependence on imports. According to forecasts by Roland Berger, prepared for the German Poultry Association (ZDG), demand for poultry products is expected to grow by an average of 3.4% annually over the next 15 years. Meanwhile, consumption growth is projected to outpace domestic production growth by more than two times.

According to the researchers, without additional investment and support measures, Germany’s self-sufficiency in poultry meat could decline from the current 91% to 77% by 2040. This would require higher imports to meet growing domestic demand. The industry association emphasizes that expanding domestic production should become a priority to maintain the competitiveness of Germany’s poultry sector.

The growing popularity of poultry meat is primarily driven by its affordability, high protein content, nutritional value, and ease of preparation. Over the past 15 years, poultry consumption in Germany has increased by 28% to approximately 22 kg per person annually. Meanwhile, total meat consumption has declined by 12% to 75 kg per person over the same period, indicating a gradual shift in consumer preferences toward poultry products.

Demand for chicken is particularly strong among younger consumers. According to a survey commissioned by ZDG, around half of Germans aged 16–29 prefer poultry meat, while 80% consume it at least once a week. In addition, 55% of Generation Z and millennial consumers consciously monitor their protein intake, further supporting demand for chicken and other poultry products.

To meet future demand, Germany’s poultry industry is prepared to invest at least €1 bln in constructing modern poultry houses, expanding slaughtering capacity, and developing processing facilities. Industry representatives are also calling for faster approval procedures for investment projects, reduced administrative barriers through digitalization, and fair competitive conditions for producers across the EU. These measures are expected to increase domestic poultry meat supplies, reduce reliance on imports, and create additional jobs in rural areas.

Tags: chicken, Germany, poultry meat