Australia launches 5-year research and development poultry plan

AgriFutures Australia has announced a new 5-year research, development and extension plan for Australia’s AUS$$6.6 billion chicken meat industry. Chicken meat, which represents more than 46% of all meat consumed in Australia, is the most popular source of animal protein in the country, contributing almost AUS$3 billion (just over €2 billon) to the national economy and employing over 58,000 people. While approximately 800 contract growers rear about 80% of Australia’s meat chickens, meat exports account for less than 5% of total production and are dominated by low-value cuts such as edible offal and chicken feet. Poultry meat production in 2023-2024 is projected at 1.3 million mt, when it is estimated that consumption per person will reach 47.6 kg per person. The Market Insights for Australia’s chicken meat industry report suggests that while chicken meat demand is likely to remain relatively high, future demand will be affected by several factors, including a growing number of ...