The European poultry market is a sector of immense scale, where the interests of producers, intermediaries, and processing plants from many countries intersect. Production data, export directions, and sanitary regulations affect the profitability of the entire supply chain. Price fluctuations and regulatory changes quickly impact the decisions of farmers and transport companies. How to navigate this structure of dependencies and leverage available opportunities? Check out how this market operates and analyze it for your own business activities!
Poultry production in European Union countries
The European Union produces approximately 13.4 million tonnes of poultry meat annually. Four countries hold the largest share of this volume, setting the direction for the entire sector. The scale of production affects intra-Community trade and purchase prices, as well as the negotiating position of individual markets.
Poland accounts for about 2.9–3.1 million tonnes annually and holds the first place in the EU. The strongest production base is located in the Greater Poland, Masovian, and Łódź voivodeships. Spain generates about 1.3 million tonnes, which constitutes nearly 13% of the EU market. Germany and France maintain shares at a level of 12% and around 10%, respectively. This structure means a concentration of supply in a few countries, alongside an extensive system of commodity exchange between them.
Domestic demand in EU countries
The average consumption of poultry meat in the European Union exceeds 23 kg per person annually. In some Western European countries, this indicator is even higher. The growing interest in poultry meat results from its price compared to beef and its shorter production cycle. Stable domestic demand limits the risk of sharp price drops, even with increased supply.
Export directions and the importance of international trade
The European market remains strongly oriented toward foreign sales. Poland ranks 3rd in the world regarding poultry meat exports, with around 60% of shipments going to European Union countries. The most important recipients are Germany, France, and the Netherlands, while the United Kingdom also plays a significant role. The scale of trade affects price levels and production decisions in individual countries.
In addition to meat, a significant part of the trade involves live livestock. Poultry trade and sales includes both broilers and flocks after the end of their laying period. In this segment, specialized intermediaries operate, organizing the purchase and transport of birds between farms and slaughterhouses across the entire Union. Shipments often exceed 12 hours, which is why they require appropriate logistical facilities and fulfillment of strict veterinary standards.
Price and production volume forecasts for 2026–2027
Analysts predict a gradual adjustment of purchase rates in Poland. At the beginning of 2026, the price is around 5.68 PLN/kg, while by the end of this year, the forecasted level is about 5.40 PLN/kg. In 2027, a further decline to around 5.10 PLN/kg is possible. These changes result from the supply-to-demand ratio and feed costs.
At the same time, broiler production is expected to grow by about 1% in 2026. Lower prices of feed raw materials and sustained interest in animal protein favor an increase in volume. This means greater competitive pressure between plants, as well as the need for precise contract planning.
Sanitary regulations and challenges for farmers
The most serious threat to the industry remains highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). Outbreaks of the disease lead to restrictions on flock movement and the closure of marketplaces. Sanitary restrictions affect delivery fluidity and slaughter schedules. Required biosecurity procedures include farm access control, disinfection of transport means, and flock monitoring.
France was the first in the EU to introduce mandatory vaccination of ducks against HPAI. Such solutions may be extended to subsequent countries. Concurrently, the importance of regulations regarding the housing and transport conditions of live livestock is growing. The regulations include, among others:
- maximum transport time of animals and mandatory breaks;
- minimum area per animal during transport;
- health documentation confirming the absence of infectious diseases.
These requirements generate additional financial and organizational burdens, which is why entities operating in this sector must constantly monitor changes in the law.
The European market under the pressure of changes
The European poultry sector relies on a high concentration of production, intensive international exchange, and strict sanitary control. Price forecasts indicate potential reductions while maintaining a large production volume. In such conditions, the role of specialized intermediaries and efficient logistics covering the entire Union is growing. Entrepreneurs who analyze market data and adapt their sales structure to the new realities stand a greater chance of maintaining a stable position in the coming years.
