How do poultry farmers navigate an industry that is perpetually bound to market forces and occasional disease outbreaks?

 

When the market is favourable, profitability gains momentum - at least for the short term. In this issue, EFL AG DATA revealed that in November 2025, China's broiler releases amounted to 1,195.76 million head, a rise of 0.54% or 6.40 million birds compared with October (pages 8-9). AA broiler prices averaged ¥7.35/kg (US$1.04/kg) in the month, an increase of 2.23% or ¥0.16/kg (US$0.02) from October's ¥7.19/kg (US$1.02). However, weak demand was restricting the bump in prices.

 

Meanwhile, the Cage-Free Layer Credit and Technical Cooperation Association has been established in China, signalling a big step for the domestic egg-laying sector toward advancing animal welfare and the production of high-standard eggs (pages 10-11).

 

A multitude of developments are shaping the Chinese poultry industry right now, but profitability is more than just predicting the market and implementing industry initiatives. As suggested by Aviagen, the most precious resource must be protected - that is, the poultry bird itself, particularly in relation to its gut health (pages 6-7). Aviagen argues for "consistent attention to detail across all stages, from pre-placement to market age" as a sure way to keep a chicken gut from harm.

 

The implication is clear: healthier chickens can at least help poultry businesses buffer against market forces.

 

The full article is published on the January 2026 issue of LIVESTOCK & FEED Business. To read the full report, please email to inquiry@efeedlink.com to request for a complimentary copy of the magazine, indicating your name, mailing address and title of the report.