October 20, 2011

Argentine poultry industry grows significantly

During the last ten years, Argentina's poultry sector has grown considerably, according to a study, "Argentina: A new player in the poultry sector", conducted by Rabobank.

In 2000, the country's poultry industry output was 900,000 tonnes and it was a net importer of 18,000 tonnes of poultry meat. Last year, production amounted 1.5 million tonnes and the country has become a net exporter of poultry, bringing in just below US$500 million.

Domestic consumption has risen by 30% during the same period, reaching 34.4 kilogrammes (75.7 lbs.) per capita in 2010.

Concerted strategic planning and investments by the industry, reduced feed costs due to export taxes, plus strong domestic and global demand in a context of economic growth have caused Argentina's poultry industry to evolve.

In the future, the industry has the ability to continue growing domestically but most opportunities will come from trying to meet international demand and countries looking for alternative supply sources.

Poultry consumption has grown at an average annual rate of 8.7% a year since 2002 and currently stands at 34 kilogrammes (74.8 lbs.) per person per year in comparison to 18 kilogrammes (39.6 lbs.) in 2002. However, this is still lower than Brazil's 45 kilogrames (99 lbs.) but higher than Uruguay's 19 kilogrammes (41.8 lbs.).