Market Trends of France Feed Additives Industry
Growing Export Demand for Meat and Meat Products
The global demand for meat is rising rapidly, driven by increasing consumer preference for animal protein. This growth is notable across key categories such as poultry, beef, and pork. French meat exports have been bolstered by several factors, including quality certifications, demand from countries with limited meat production, and the established reputation of French meats in the global market. Pork exports have been particularly strong, supported by robust demand from Asia-Pacific markets. For example, pork exports from France received a boost from agreements with China, allowing exports of pork by-products and specific processed proteins. China was the largest importer of frozen hams, shoulders, and cuts from France, accounting for USD 10,353 thousand in 2023, according to the ITC Trademap.
Beef exports from France have also increased, driven by demand from neighboring European countries and Middle Eastern markets. This growth occurred despite high production costs associated with the European Union's environmental and welfare standards. According to the National Establishment for Agricultural and Seafood Products (FranceAgriMer), beef exports exceeded imports by USD 671 million in 2023. Poultry and sheep & goat meat exports also contribute significantly to France's meat export portfolio. This surge in exports has led to increased demand for feed additives, which are crucial for maintaining meat quality and animal health to meet international standards. Additives such as vitamins, enzymes, and probiotics play a vital role in enhancing animal growth rates, immune health, and product quality. These components are essential for export-ready production as producers aim to meet both domestic and international quality requirements.
Poultry and Swine Segments Dominated the Market
France plays a significant role in the European Union's poultry and swine industries, supported by strong consumer demand and robust agricultural infrastructure. Poultry and swine meat are essential proteins in the French diet, with poultry maintaining popularity over the past decade due to its affordability, versatility, and perceived health benefits compared to red meats. According to the National Establishment for Agricultural and Seafood Products (FranceAgriMer), chicken meat, the primary poultry type, reached a dressed weight of 1.08 million metric tons in 2023. Pork production surpassed poultry, totaling 2.09 million metric tons in the same year, despite facing challenges from increased feed costs and disease management issues. While domestic swine consumption decreased slightly by 3.84% in 2023 compared to 2022, as reported by FranceAgriMer, pork remains a staple protein source, particularly in processed meats.
The feed industry plays a crucial role in supporting France's poultry and swine sectors. The European Feed Manufacturers' Federation (FEFAC) data indicates that poultry feed production accounted for 40.8% and swine feed accounted for 22.5% of the overall feed production in 2023. These animal categories remain dominant in the feed additives market, driven by meat demand and the use of additives to improve feed efficiency and productivity. To maintain European standards in animal product output, France is projected to continue using feed additives in commercial farms throughout the forecast period.
