Poultry meat continues to be a staple in European diets, with both production and exports seeing a promising rise this year. In 2024, the European poultry sector is thriving, supported by favorable conditions that not only encourage growth but also highlight the demand for poultry across European markets. Insights from the European Commission and the USDA point to several key factors behind this growth, from decreased feed costs to increasing consumer demand.
Increasing Production and Exports: A 2024 Snapshot
The European Union’s poultry industry has shown a steady upward trajectory, with production expected to grow by approximately 4% this year. Exports are also anticipated to increase by 3% compared to 2023 levels. This trend isn’t a short-lived phenomenon; European analysts forecast continued growth into 2025.
A recent EU report, covering the first six months of 2024, shows that poultry processing rose by 4.7% across member countries. Poland, a leading poultry producer, reported production growth of more than 5% from 2022 to 2023. Italy followed closely with over 5% growth, while Germany’s production increased modestly by around 1%. France saw the most notable increase, with production surging over 15%. On the other hand, some countries, like the Netherlands, Sweden, and Lithuania, faced declines, particularly due to regional challenges and market adjustments.
Factors Driving Growth in Production and Export
The growth in Europe’s poultry production is fueled by several factors, including:
Milder Bird Flu Season: Reduced instances of avian influenza have allowed more consistent production rates.
Lower Feed Costs: Declining feed prices have lessened the financial burden on producers.
Higher Yield Prices: Better returns on poultry have incentivized production, making poultry farming a more lucrative venture.
In addition to these factors, improved biosecurity measures across the continent have helped protect poultry stocks and limit disease outbreaks. This security has not only boosted production but also strengthened confidence in the European poultry sector for export markets.
Rising Poultry Consumption in the EU
Europe’s appetite for poultry is also growing, with per capita consumption expected to hit 25.2 kg by 2025—up from 16.4 kg in 2000. This marks a significant increase, placing poultry on track to rival pork, the traditionally preferred meat in Europe. In contrast, pork consumption has been declining, with average intake per person projected to drop from 34.3 kg in 2000 to 30.9 kg by 2025.
A comparative analysis of consumption trends highlights the shift: while beef consumption is also on the decline (from 12 kg per capita in 2000 to an anticipated 9.4 kg in 2025), poultry has become an affordable, versatile, and lean protein choice that appeals to a wide demographic across Europe. This rising trend in poultry is attributed to factors such as:
Health and Nutrition Awareness: Consumers are increasingly health-conscious, favoring lean proteins.
Affordability: Poultry remains a more budget-friendly option than beef or pork, making it attractive to middle-income consumers.
Cultural Adaptability: Poultry fits easily into a wide array of European cuisines, further enhancing its popularity.
European Production Surpasses Global Averages
With production levels growing faster than the global average, Europe’s poultry industry has gained a competitive edge. While global poultry production is forecasted to increase by around 2% in 2025, the EU is exceeding this rate, benefitting from a combination of structural efficiencies, investment in modern facilities, and economic drivers that make poultry farming more feasible.
According to USDA projections, global poultry production is on track to hit a record of 104.9 million tonnes by 2025, spurred by contributions from other major producers like the US, Brazil, China, and Turkey. In these countries, falling feed costs and renewed consumer demand have made poultry a reliable investment, and European producers are staying competitive in this international landscape.
China and Brazil: Leading Poultry Producers
Among the top players, China and Brazil are expected to witness substantial increases in poultry production. China is aiming to reclaim its position as the world’s largest poultry producer, driven by rising domestic demand and streamlined production processes. Brazil, on the other hand, is capitalizing on global demand with competitive production costs and favorable trade agreements that enable it to export poultry meat to high-demand regions, including Mexico, the Middle East, and Europe.
Global Export Surge in 2025
Global poultry exports are set to grow by 2% next year, driven by stable consumption and a preference for affordable protein options, especially in emerging markets. The USDA predicts that worldwide poultry exports will reach 13.8 million tonnes in 2025, a record high. The demand for chicken, in particular, continues to be strong, especially among middle-income households that view it as a cost-effective alternative to other animal proteins.
Brazil is poised to dominate this export growth due to several key advantages:
Lower Production Costs: Competitive pricing gives Brazilian poultry a favorable position in the global market.
Access to Growth Markets: Brazil supplies poultry to countries such as Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, the UAE, and the UK.
Reduced Bird Flu Restrictions: Many regions have lifted avian influenza restrictions, broadening the export potential for Brazilian poultry.
The EU, alongside the US and Thailand, will also see export growth, although the European Union’s exports face unique challenges, including stringent quality controls and regulatory compliance that limit rapid expansion.
Case Studies: Insights from European Producers
To gain a better understanding of the current trends, let’s examine case studies from leading poultry-producing countries in the EU:
1. Poland: Known as the largest poultry producer in the EU, Poland’s poultry industry has managed to thrive despite market fluctuations. The country’s production has benefited from investments in efficient processing plants, which have allowed Polish producers to meet both domestic and international demand effectively.
2. France: France’s poultry sector has seen impressive growth, particularly as domestic policies support local farming practices that emphasize quality and safety. French producers have benefited from subsidies and marketing initiatives that promote French poultry both domestically and abroad.
3. Italy: Italy’s poultry industry, characterized by family-owned farms, has seen consistent growth. Italian poultry is in high demand within the EU due to its reputation for quality, and Italy’s robust market for organic poultry further distinguishes its exports.
Conclusion: The Future of Europe’s Poultry Industry
The European poultry market is on an upward trajectory, with both production and exports projected to increase over the coming years. Supported by favorable market conditions, lower feed costs, and rising consumer demand, the industry is in a strong position to continue its expansion. As global demand for affordable proteins like poultry rises, Europe is well-equipped to meet this demand, maintaining its role as a key player in the international market.
Looking ahead, producers will likely need to focus on innovation and efficiency, particularly as sustainability and animal welfare concerns shape consumer preferences. For now, however, Europe’s poultry sector is set to thrive, meeting both domestic and export needs and solidifying its position in the global meat industry.
