On the export side, EU pork shipments are expected to rise 5% despite post-Brexit trade barriers. At the same time, beef production in the EU is expected to decline by 1.3% (92 thousand tons) in 2021 due to lower demand in the catering sector. However, exports to high-value markets such as Canada and Japan should continue to grow thanks to recent trade agreements.

The poultry industry expects a similar development of the situation due to outbreaks of avian influenza recorded in the main producer markets and high feed prices. Poultry meat production this year will fall by 0.9% (121 thousand tons), but domestic consumption is expected to increase throughout the block as the catering sector resumes its work. However, frozen stocks should partially meet this additional demand, leading to apparent stable consumption.

Production of sheep and goat meat in the EU should remain stable in 2021, increasing by 0.1% (688 tons), despite relatively high prices. On the demand side, the opening of catering facilities should have a positive impact on the sector in the second half of the year.

Source: meatinfo