Rabobank: 2015 global poultry industry outlook upbeat

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  The global poultry industry outlook is upbeat, according to a quarterly report from Rabobank.

  From WATTAgNet:
  The outlook for the global poultry industry remains upbeat, but global trade is under pressure from outbreaks of avian influenza, according to Rabobank’s Global Poultry Industry report for the first quarter of 2015.
  In the report, the bank's Food & Agribusiness Research team says that pressure is being felt from the further spread of avian influenza across the globe, with new outbreaks in Asia, Europe and North America.
  "Avian flu is further spreading across the globe and could affect global trade streams, especially as the virus has moved further in Europe to Hungary, and in the U.S. to central states like Minnesota, Missouri and Arkansas," said Rabobank Animal Protein Analyst Nan-Dirk Mulder. "Joint global approaches, optimal biosecurity, and strong monitoring and compensation systems are necessary to stop the spread of the disease."
  Global outlook
  The margin outlook for the global poultry industry remains upbeat, with continuing bullish drivers like high beef prices, lower feed costs and relatively strong demand in most regions.
  However, the global poultry trade is under pressure from avian influenza outbreaks. The exchange rate volatility and turmoil in regions such as the Middle East and Eastern Europe, are leading to lower trade volumes, prices and shifts in trade streams.
  United States
  Rabobank says the poultry sector in the U.S. has a favorable outlook, but some uncertainties remain. The margins are expected to remain high in 2015. The biggest unknown in 2015 is industry expansion.
  Brazil
  The Brazilian poultry market began 2015 bullish despite export challenges, according to Rabobank. The lower oil price will hit the Middle East demand. Still, exports are expected to be strong in 2015, mostly driven by Asia. Margins will be supported by reduction of feed costs as well.
  Europe
  The poultry industry in the European Union shows some recovery and although supply is currently tight, the outlook is threatened by ongoing avian influenza concerns and still closed export markets.
  China
  Entering the first quarter of 2015, China has an ongoing struggle of oversupply due to avian influenza and food safety issues. As a consequence of human avian influenza cases reported, live bird markets were shut down. During the seasonal peak month, poultry retail prices remained flat.
  Russia
  The Russian market remains very bullish on low supply. The outlook remains strong, with expected ongoing tight market conditions due to expensive, limited imported volumes and restrictions on growth.
  Other regions
  Mexico has ongoing avian influenza issues and lower pork prices will soften poultry meat consumption growth. Japan's poultry industry is still bullish despite ongoing avian influenza outbreaks.  In Thailand, the export position is supported by a strong Thai baht.