German poultry demand projected to rise 50% by 2040

A report by consultancy Roland Berger, commissioned by the Central Association of the German Poultry Industry (ZDG), indicates that poultry meat demand in Germany could increase by 50% by 2040. As consumption growth significantly outpaces domestic production, the country's self-sufficiency rate is projected to drop from 91% to a maximum of 77% by 2040 unless production is stimulated.

To counter rising import dependency, the German poultry sector has expressed readiness to invest at least €1 billion in modernizing farms and expanding slaughter and processing capacities. ZDG Director Wolfgang Schleicher stated that increasing national production is the most effective way to avoid greater reliance on imports. Recommendations to support this growth include accelerating the licensing of new ventures, reducing bureaucracy through digitalization, and ensuring fairer competition within the European Union.

Over the last 15 years, poultry consumption in Germany has risen by 28%, reaching approximately 22 kg per person annually, while total meat consumption has fallen by 12%. This trend is driven by the perceived accessibility, versatility, and lower carbon footprint of poultry. Research shows that 50% of Germans aged 16 to 29 prefer poultry, with 80% consuming it at least once a week.