World Turkey Meat

Production

World turkey meat production is expected to be invariable in 2009. At present, the US, EU-27, and Brazil comprise 95 per cent of the world’s turkey meat production. Turkey meat production in the US and the EU-27 (European Union) are forecast slightly lower, while Brazilian production is expected to continue increasing. The decrease in US production is attributed to high feed and energy costs, rising stocks, and falling domestic demand. The decline in EU-27 turkey meat production is ascribed to the bankruptcies and closures of major turkey producing companies. Brazil’s turkey meat production is being driven by stronger exports and rising domestic demand as turkey consumption is slowly becoming a year round product instead of a seasonal one, especially processed products.

Imports

According to the USDA FAS World Markets and Trade report, poultry imports are forecast to rise 1 per cent to 21 million tons in 2009. Turkey meat imports from Mexico are expected to rise as demand expands into supermarkets and deli type restaurants and consumer begin opting for more healthy choices. The EU-27 is projected to continue importing more especially from Brazil. Together these two countries account for 60 per cent of total world turkey meat imports. Another rapidly developing import marketplace is China. At present consumption has outpaced production. Turkey meat is considered to be a non-traditional meat product, which is primarily consumed by foreigners, Chinese who have lived abroad, and a younger generation influenced by Western cultures and traditions.

Percentages of the World Total for Turkey Meat Production, Consumption, Imports, and Exports for 2008 Leaders
Note: S.Africa = South Africa. All data is from January-December.

Further Reading

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