Chicken production rises while turkey sees a decline

Germany's poultry production remained stable in 2025, maintaining a steady output of 1.6 million tonnes, according to recent data from the Federal Statistical Office Destatis. However, this overall stability masks significant shifts within the poultry sector, with chicken production increasing and turkey production declining.

Poultry Production Overview

The German poultry industry has shown resilience, with total production levels unchanged from the previous year. This stability underscores the importance of poultry as a key component of Germany's meat production landscape. Despite the overall stability, the industry is experiencing divergent trends within its segments.

Increase in Chicken Production

Chicken, particularly broiler chickens, has driven growth within the poultry sector. Production of broiler chicken meat rose by 3.6% to approximately 1.1 million tonnes in 2025. This increase highlights the robust demand for chicken meat in Germany, which continues to be a significant part of the poultry market.

Decline in Turkey Production

Conversely, turkey production has seen a notable decline, dropping by 7.7% to 376,800 tonnes. This decrease indicates a reduced demand for turkey meat, which has led to a shift in focus within the poultry industry. The decline in turkey production suggests a changing preference among consumers or possibly adjustments in production strategies by producers.

Broader Meat Production Trends

Overall, Germany's meat production, including pork and beef, also experienced slight changes. Total meat production was approximately 6.9 million tonnes, a 0.2% decrease from the previous year. Notably, pork production saw a 1.1% increase to 4.3 million tonnes, while beef production fell by 6.0% to 0.9 million tonnes. These figures reflect broader trends in the meat industry, with varying consumer preferences and market dynamics influencing production levels.

Industry Implications

The shifts within the poultry sector have implications for market dynamics, including pricing, supply chain logistics, and trade. The increase in chicken production could lead to competitive pricing and potentially influence export opportunities, while the decline in turkey production might result in higher prices due to reduced supply.

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