Mexico poultry consumption to rise in 2011

Mexico's 2011 poultry consumption is expected to rise, according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture Global Agricultural Information Network report, even as higher feed prices and grain price volatility continue to limit growth.
Purchasing power continues to recover, and the demand by lower-income consumers is expected to continue increasing, according to the report. However, the growing Mexican population and a shift in the preferences of middle-income consumers from chicken to beef are limiting per-capita consumption growth.
The import forecast is revised upward 5% from initial projections, to 580,000 metric tons, maintaining previous growth expectations following a stronger-than-expected 2010 import figure. Consumer demand remains strong, particularly due to lower international prices.
The export forecast has also been revised slightly higher by 4,000 metric tons, reflecting increased shipments to Asian markets.