White broilers now make up 70% of China's chicken production

China's poultry industry is witnessing a significant transformation as white feather broilers now account for approximately 70% of the national chicken production. This marks a substantial increase from five years ago when they constituted only half of the market.

Market Dynamics

The surge in popularity of white feather chickens is primarily due to their advantageous traits, including a rapid growth cycle of just 6 to 8 weeks and an efficient feed conversion ratio. These characteristics make them well-suited for large-scale, vertically integrated operations that manage the entire supply chain from hatcheries to processing plants. Such integration allows companies to stabilise supply chains and better withstand market fluctuations compared to smaller, independent farms.

Consumer Preferences

Consumer trends are also driving the shift towards white feather broilers. The growing demand for processed and ready-to-eat poultry products aligns with the attributes of white broilers, making them a preferred choice. As urbanisation and changing lifestyles influence food consumption patterns, these chickens are favoured for their convenience and affordability.

Economic and Policy Factors

Despite challenges such as falling broiler prices and rising production costs, large-scale integrators remain resilient. Although farming returns have been modest, averaging ¥0.25 to ¥1.02 per kilogram (EUR 0.03 to 0.12), these companies offset losses through diversified operations, including feed production and meat processing. Additionally, policy and trade dynamics support the growth of white feather broilers. China relies heavily on imported breeding stock, particularly from France, due to avian influenza restrictions on U.S. and New Zealand sources. However, domestic breeding programs are expanding to reduce this dependency.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, the white feather chicken segment is expected to continue driving moderate growth in China's poultry output. Industry forecasts suggest production will increase slightly by 2026, fuelled by consumer demand and the efficiency of integrated farming models. Meanwhile, hybrid broilers, which currently hold 8–10% of the market, are gaining traction due to their cost advantages and shorter production cycles. In contrast, yellow feather broilers are losing market share, now representing just 17–20% of the market due to their slower growth and higher costs.

Overall, the rise of white feather chickens reflects a broader shift towards industrialised, scalable poultry production in China, positioning the sector for sustained growth and enhanced global competitiveness.

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