Global Chicken Market Trends & Forecast: Rising Demand for Affordable Protein

The global chicken or poultry meat market continues to expand steadily as consumers increasingly seek affordable, nutritious, and versatile sources of protein. Poultry meat—particularly chicken—has become one of the most widely consumed meats worldwide due to its relatively low cost, lower fat content, and adaptability across cuisines.

According to Renub Research, the global chicken/poultry meat market was valued at US$160.62 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$268.35 billion by 2033, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.87% from 2025 to 2033. The growth trajectory reflects strong demand from both developed and emerging economies as changing dietary preferences, population growth, and urbanization reshape the global food industry.

Several factors are driving the expansion of the chicken market, including rising disposable incomes, technological advancements in poultry farming, the rapid growth of the foodservice sector, and increasing awareness of the nutritional advantages of chicken compared to red meat.

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Overview of the Global Chicken and Poultry Meat Industry

The chicken and poultry meat sector represents one of the largest and fastest-growing segments within the global food industry. Chicken has gained popularity as a primary animal protein because it offers a combination of affordability, nutritional value, and culinary versatility.

Compared to red meats such as beef and pork, poultry meat typically contains less fat and fewer calories. As consumers become more health-conscious, many are shifting toward leaner protein options, which has boosted the consumption of chicken globally.

Chicken is also widely used in numerous food products, including grilled dishes, curries, sandwiches, and processed foods such as nuggets, sausages, and deli meats. The increasing popularity of fast food chains and ready-to-eat meals has further strengthened the demand for processed poultry products.

Another key factor supporting the industry is the development of efficient poultry farming systems. Advances in breeding, feeding, and disease management technologies have significantly increased productivity and improved production efficiency. These innovations allow producers to meet rising global demand while keeping production costs relatively low.

Strong distribution networks and the rapid expansion of the foodservice sector also play a crucial role in supporting the poultry meat industry. Restaurants, quick-service chains, and catering services rely heavily on chicken due to its affordability and wide consumer acceptance.

Despite its growth, the industry faces challenges such as volatile feed prices, animal welfare concerns, and increasing competition from plant-based protein alternatives.

Global Population Growth Driving Poultry Demand

One of the most influential drivers of the poultry meat market is global population growth. As the world population expands, the demand for accessible and affordable sources of protein increases significantly.

According to the United Nations, the global population reached 8.2 billion people in 2024 and is expected to rise to 9.7 billion by 2050, with projections suggesting a peak of 10.3 billion by the mid-2080s.

Meeting the nutritional needs of such a large population requires efficient food production systems. Poultry farming is particularly well suited to this challenge because chickens require fewer resources and less time to raise compared to cattle or pigs.

In the past century, chicken has gradually replaced beef and pork as the world's most widely consumed meat. Reports from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) indicate that around 74 billion chickens are raised and slaughtered annually worldwide, a number expected to increase to 85 billion by 2032, representing a 15% rise.

This growth highlights the central role poultry will play in global food security and protein supply in the coming decades.

Production Growth and Global Supply Expansion

Global poultry production continues to increase as producers scale up operations and adopt advanced farming technologies.

According to forecasts from OECD and FAO, global poultry meat production exceeded 139 million metric tons in 2023, marking an increase of nearly 3% compared to the previous year.

Production growth remains consistent with other major meat categories such as pork, beef, and lamb. However, poultry production often expands faster because chickens have shorter production cycles and lower feed conversion ratios.

Major poultry-producing countries include:

• United States

• Brazil

• China

• European Union nations

• Mexico

• Thailand

These countries benefit from well-developed agricultural infrastructure, large-scale farming operations, and advanced supply chains that support mass poultry production.

Rising Disposable Incomes in Emerging Economies

Economic growth in emerging markets is another major driver of the global chicken market. As household incomes increase, consumers spend more on protein-rich foods and convenience meals.

Asia-Pacific is expected to play a particularly important role in future consumption growth. According to Euromonitor’s income and expenditure analysis, total disposable income across the Asia-Pacific region is projected to more than double between 2021 and 2040.

Although the region still has relatively lower average income levels compared to Western markets, its large population base means it will contribute significantly to global demand for poultry.

The International Monetary Fund has also highlighted Asia-Pacific as a key driver of global economic growth, with the region’s economy expanding by 3.9% in 2022 and 4.6% in 2023.

As disposable incomes rise, consumers increasingly purchase poultry products, including fresh chicken, frozen meals, and processed foods.

Health-Conscious Consumers Driving Market Expansion

Changing dietary preferences are also influencing the global poultry industry. Many consumers are reducing their consumption of red meat due to concerns about cholesterol, saturated fats, and overall health.

Chicken is widely viewed as a healthier alternative because it offers:

• High protein content

• Lower fat levels

• Fewer calories

• Greater versatility in cooking

These characteristics make poultry an attractive choice for individuals focused on weight management and heart health.

Younger consumers, in particular, are adopting balanced diets that emphasize lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains. As a result, chicken continues to gain popularity across a wide range of demographics.

Urbanization and the Rise of Convenience Foods

Rapid urbanization has significantly influenced global eating habits. City populations often lead fast-paced lifestyles and rely heavily on convenient food options.

Chicken products fit well within this trend because they are easy to cook, widely available, and frequently used in ready-to-eat meals. Processed poultry items such as nuggets, sandwiches, and frozen chicken meals have become staples in supermarkets and fast-food menus.

Quick-service restaurant chains also depend heavily on chicken-based dishes, further boosting demand.

Urban consumers with higher disposable incomes are more likely to purchase pre-packaged or processed chicken products, driving growth in the poultry processing sector.

Government Support Strengthening Poultry Production

Government policies and investment programs are helping expand poultry production capacity in many regions.

For example, Ghana pledged to invest approximately US$541 million in its poultry sector in 2023 to increase domestic production and reduce reliance on imports. The investment aims to modernize production facilities, strengthen biosecurity measures, and improve supply chain infrastructure.

Similar initiatives are being implemented in other countries where governments are promoting agricultural development and food security through investments in poultry farming.

These programs support local farmers, create employment opportunities, and enhance national food production capabilities.

Challenges Facing the Global Poultry Industry

Volatile Feed Prices

Feed represents one of the largest costs in poultry production, accounting for 60–70% of total production expenses. Key feed ingredients such as corn and soybeans often experience price fluctuations due to weather conditions, supply chain disruptions, and global trade policies.

When feed prices rise, poultry producers face higher production costs, which can impact profitability and increase retail prices for consumers.

Managing feed price volatility remains one of the most significant challenges for poultry farmers worldwide.

Disease Outbreaks and Biosecurity Risks

The poultry industry is highly vulnerable to disease outbreaks, particularly avian influenza (bird flu) and Newcastle disease.

These diseases can spread rapidly among poultry populations, often forcing farmers to cull large numbers of birds to prevent further contamination.

Such outbreaks disrupt supply chains, reduce production volumes, and may lead to temporary export restrictions imposed by trading partners.

In addition to financial losses, disease outbreaks can undermine consumer confidence and create price volatility in global poultry markets.

Regional Highlights in the Chicken Market

United States

The United States is one of the largest poultry producers and consumers globally. Strong demand for affordable protein, combined with efficient farming technologies and large-scale production systems, supports the country’s dominant position in the market.

The popularity of processed chicken products such as nuggets, tenders, and deli meats also contributes significantly to market growth.

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom’s poultry market is expanding as consumers increasingly choose chicken over red meat due to its perceived health benefits.

Demand for organic and free-range poultry is also rising as consumers prioritize ethical sourcing and sustainable farming practices.

Japan

Japan’s poultry market continues to grow due to strong demand for convenient and versatile meat products. Popular dishes such as karaage (Japanese fried chicken) and ready-to-eat meals drive consumption across the country.

Japanese consumers spent an average of ¥72,800 on meat in 2023, with consumption expected to grow steadily in the coming years.

Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, poultry plays a central role in traditional cuisine and daily meals. Population growth, urbanization, and increasing disposable incomes are boosting the consumption of chicken products.

Halal-certified poultry remains particularly important in the region due to religious and cultural dietary requirements.

India

India’s poultry sector is expanding rapidly as chicken becomes a primary source of affordable protein for millions of consumers.

The country produced 122,049 million eggs in 2020–21, reflecting the growing strength of the poultry industry. During 2021–2022, approximately 3.06 billion chickens were slaughtered, contributing 51.44% of total meat production in India.

Urbanization, changing dietary habits, and the growth of quick-service restaurants are further accelerating demand for poultry products across the country.

Key Industry Developments

Several strategic developments highlight the evolving nature of the global poultry market.

In February 2023, Stampede Meat Inc. entered into an agreement with DL Lee & Sons to expand its production capacity in the southeastern United States.

In August 2023, investment firm DCP Capital acquired Cargill’s poultry business in China, demonstrating growing investor interest in the poultry sector.

Meanwhile, Tyson Foods announced in November 2023 that it plans to expand its facility in the Netherlands and construct additional poultry production plants in China and Thailand.

These new facilities are expected to produce around 100,000 tonnes of fully cooked poultry and create thousands of new jobs.

Final Thoughts

The global chicken and poultry meat industry is poised for steady growth over the next decade as demand for affordable, nutritious protein continues to rise.

With the market projected to grow from US$160.62 billion in 2024 to US$268.35 billion by 2033, poultry will remain one of the most important sources of animal protein worldwide.

Population growth, urbanization, technological advancements in farming, and increasing consumer awareness of healthier diets will continue to drive market expansion.

However, producers must also address challenges such as feed price volatility, disease outbreaks, and sustainability concerns. Companies that invest in advanced farming technologies, strong biosecurity systems, and efficient supply chains will be