April 2, 2018

China broiler production seen to rise 1% in 2018 as consumer demand returns

Broiler meat production in China is forecast to increase 1% or by 700,000 tonnes to 11.7 million tonnes in 2018 compared with 2017.

The US Department made the forecast in light of what it said is the returning consumer demand following China's worst recorded outbreak of H7N9 avian influenza in the fall of 2016 continuing into the summer of 2017.

Last year, broiler production was down as a result of consumer concerns stemming from widely publicized avian influenza outbreaks across China.

Overall, according to the USDA, China broiler meat consumption is still very low, with per capita consumption at about 8 kilogramme-much lower than the 28 kg per capita level in Taiwan.

Imports and exports

The USDA forecasts that imports will decrease to 300,000 tonnes this year, largely due to a limited supply, specifically from Brazil, China's largest poultry supplier, which is currently plagued by a long-running tainted-meat scandal.

The scandal has affected its ability to export meat and poultry. The USDA said other major trading partners have limited production capability to fill the gap.

On the other hand, exports are forecast to increase 1% this year to 440,000 tonnes. China mainly exports to Japan and Hong Kong. It likewise adjusted its 2017 export numbers to 436,000 tonnes from the original forecast of 400,000 tonnes.