09 August 2026
The Flemish poultry flock reached an all-time high of 47.4 million birds in 2025, according to new figures from Statistics Flanders (Statistiek Vlaanderen). While pig and cattle populations in Flanders continue to shrink under strict environmental policies and economic pressure, the poultry sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by robust consumer demand and strong profitability.
Over two decades, the Flemish poultry population expanded by nearly 56%, up from 30.4 million in 2005. Broiler chicken numbers surged by 82%, while the laying hen population grew by roughly 25%. According to the Flemish Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, growth is propelled by rising consumer preferences for poultry and eggs as affordable, healthy, and low-carbon protein sources compared to red meat. Total production value for the sector reached €961 million in 2024, with meat production accounting for nearly two-thirds.
Increased flock size stems from structural consolidation rather than an increase in farm count. Flanders currently counts slightly over 600 specialized poultry farms (representing 83.8% of the total Belgian poultry population), where individual farms have significantly expanded barn capacity and stock sizes.
