Table of Contents

Introduction

The poultry market in Colombia reached a significant volume of approximately 2.03 million metric tons in 2023, marking a stable year for the industry. The sector is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.10% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2032. By 2032, the market volume is projected to reach about 2.68 million metric tons, driven by several key factors:

1. Increasing Domestic Demand for Poultry Products

With a growing population and a rising middle class, demand for poultry products, particularly chicken, continues to increase in Colombia. Poultry remains one of the most affordable and widely consumed forms of meat in the country.

2. Expansion in Poultry Farming and Production

Colombian poultry farms are benefiting from advancements in animal husbandry techniques, improving efficiency and production rates. Innovations in breeding, feed, and disease control are also helping enhance poultry production.

3. Export Potential and Regional Trade

Colombia’s proximity to other Latin American countries and its growing reputation as a poultry exporter are driving increased trade in poultry products, particularly to neighboring countries and regions where demand is surging.

4. Improved Animal Welfare and Sustainability

Consumer preferences in Colombia are shifting toward sustainably produced meat. As a result, poultry producers are focusing on environmentally-friendly practices and improving animal welfare standards, which is expected to support market growth.

5. Government Support and Regulation

The Colombian government continues to support the poultry industry through policies aimed at increasing production capacity, improving food safety standards, and encouraging foreign investment in the sector. This regulatory framework ensures a stable and reliable supply chain for poultry production.

As these trends continue, Colombia’s poultry market will see consistent growth, positioning the country as a leader in poultry production and export in Latin America. With projected 3.10% CAGR growth, the industry is on track to meet both domestic and international demands in the coming years.

Here are some more insights on Colombia’s poultry market:

1. Increasing Consumer Preferences for Processed Poultry

There is a growing demand for processed poultry products, such as chicken breasts, nuggets, and ready-to-eat meals, due to the rise in urbanization and busy lifestyles. This trend is expected to boost the market for value-added poultry.

2. Advancements in Poultry Production Technology

Technological innovations such as precision farming, genetic improvements in poultry, and automated systems in feeding and health management are enhancing efficiency and productivity in Colombia’s poultry farms.

3. Challenges in Feed Costs and Disease Management

The cost of feed remains one of the largest expenses in poultry farming. Additionally, disease outbreaks such as avian influenza can disrupt production, posing challenges to the market. However, producers are adopting more biosecurity measures to mitigate these risks.

4. Strengthening of the Local Poultry Industry

With more investments in local poultry farms and supply chains, Colombia is enhancing its self-sufficiency in poultry production. This will reduce dependency on imports and strengthen the industry’s domestic market.

These factors, combined with government support and consumer trends, will continue to drive the growth of the Colombian poultry market in the coming years.

5. Growth of Organic and Free-Range Poultry

With increasing awareness about health and food quality, there is a growing consumer preference for organic and free-range poultry. This trend is expected to boost the production of higher-end poultry products in Colombia, catering to more discerning consumers.

6. Environmental Sustainability in Poultry Farming

Sustainability practices, such as reducing carbon footprints and improving waste management, are becoming crucial for the industry. Farmers are investing in renewable energy sources and water conservation techniques to meet global standards for eco-friendly production.

7. Export Opportunities in New Markets

Colombia is exploring new export opportunities in emerging markets, such as Asia and Africa, where poultry consumption is growing rapidly. This could open up additional revenue streams for Colombian poultry producers, driving further market expansion.

8. Consumer Shift Towards Local Produce

As consumers become more conscious of food provenance, there is a shift toward locally produced poultry. This is providing an opportunity for Colombian farmers to capitalize on the growing demand for locally sourced, fresh poultry products.

9. Impact of International Trade Agreements

Trade agreements, such as the Andean Community and Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with major countries, are opening up avenues for Colombia to enhance its poultry exports, especially to neighboring Latin American countries.

10. Impact of Urbanization on Poultry Consumption

As more Colombians move to urban areas, they are shifting towards convenient, ready-to-cook poultry products, such as pre-packaged cuts and processed meat. This urbanization trend is driving the demand for more affordable and convenient poultry products.

11. Increasing Poultry Exports to Neighboring Countries

Colombia is strengthening its position as a poultry exporter to neighboring countries like Venezuela, Ecuador, and Panama, where demand for poultry products is rising due to population growth and increasing meat consumption.

12. Health and Nutrition Trends Impacting Poultry Choices

Consumers are increasingly interested in healthier poultry options such as low-fat or high-protein products. This shift is encouraging poultry producers in Colombia to innovate in terms of nutrition, offering more specialized products to meet these growing demands.

13. The Role of Poultry in Colombia’s Food Security

The poultry sector plays a key role in food security in Colombia. With its low cost and high nutritional value, poultry remains an essential protein source for the population, contributing to the country’s efforts to combat malnutrition and ensure stable food availability.

These additional factors will continue to shape the trajectory of Colombia’s poultry market over the next decade.

The Growth of Colombia’s Poultry Market: A 3.10% CAGR Outlook