May 24, 2012

The world's poultry production is expected to rise by 2% to 103.5 million tonnes this year.

The slight growth is a result of high feed costs, bird flu outbreaks and on-going trade disputes, according to the latest USDA International Egg and Poultry Review. Majority of the increase is expected to be provided by Asian countries such as China, India, Japan, Korea and Turkey.

Steady poultry production is expected in developed countries with slight gains in the EU and reduced outputs from the US in light of falling chick placements. An increase of 6% in Russia's production is expected due to several investment projects. Brazil and Mexico will also see increases of 3% and 2% respectively.

World imports of poultry are also pegged to rise by 3% this year in spite of trade restrictions. Most of the increase is likely to come from Hong Kong, Vietnam, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

Despite Russia's relisting of plants, Brazilian chicken exports are expected to rise by 2% in 2012 by means of a favourable exchange rate. Turkish shipments are forecast to rise as well after gaining market access to Saudi Arabia after a six-year ban. Strong demand from Chile and Venezuela, as well as other regional countries, will continue to support Argentina's growing poultry exports.