06 October 2026
Driven by high-protein dietary trends, favorable health perceptions, and price competitiveness relative to other meats, consumer demand for poultry meat in Germany is projected to grow by up to 3.4% annually through 2040, according to an industry study conducted by global consultancy Roland Berger on behalf of the Central Association of the German Poultry Industry (ZDG). Even under more conservative scenarios, the study projects sustained annual demand growth of at least 1.1%, reinforcing poultry’s position as the primary growth driver within Germany’s livestock sector.
The study highlights a growing structural gap between domestic consumer demand and local production capacity. Germany’s self-sufficiency rate for poultry meat has steadily declined and currently stands at around 91% overall and 93% for broiler meat. Further erosion is anticipated if domestic production fails to expand in line with rising demand.
To keep pace with increasing consumption and prevent a substantial rise in poultry meat imports, the study estimates that Germany would need to commission between 130 and 180 modern poultry houses annually.
Presenting the findings, ZDG leadership emphasized that while German poultry farmers are prepared to expand sustainable production, domestic growth remains constrained by significant administrative and regulatory barriers. Without targeted policy reforms and greater investment security, industry experts warn that the anticipated increase in demand will increasingly be met by foreign suppliers operating under different animal-welfare and environmental standards.
