November 26, 2019

India's 2019 broiler production to rise close to five million tonnes

India's broiler production for 2019 is projected to increase by 7.7% to nearly five million tonnes.

In addition, processed chicken meat demand is projected to grow between 15-20% and layer production is forecast at 85 billion eggs. The Indian industry has over 65 lakh poultry farmers and the industry turnover is pegged at about Rs one lakh crore.

India is now world's third largest egg producer and is is the fourth-largest chicken producer after China, Brazil and the United States, according to said Chakradhar Rao, president of the Indian Poultry Equipment Manufacturers' Association (IPEMA).

"Poultry industry is playing a flagship role in its efforts to eradicate malnourishment and protein deficiency in the country," he said.

He was speaking at the curtain raiser of 13th Poultry India Expo, which will be held on November 27-29 at HITEC City. The event, South Asia's biggest, has attracted a record 375 companies from India and abroad and is expected to draw over 35,000 business visitors.

On the challenges the sector is facing, Rao said: "We are positive that Government will give us a sympathetic ear on the proposed cage ban. Also, there are unbridled imports happening. We have voiced our fear on these. If not resolved soon, these two will stop India's poultry industry from growing."

- Telangana Today