© Le Coq Sportif
French meat market thrives: New growth and global opportunities
July 24th 2024
In 2023, the French meat market experienced a notable growth of 2%, reaching 3.3 million tonnes. Leading the charge, the “Lamb, Mutton, and Goat” category saw a 5% increase in total sales, totaling 94,000 tonnes. This upward trend is set to continue, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1% projected from 2023 to 2028, pushing the market to 3.4 million tonnes.
Chicken remains a staple in French diets, with a growing preference for processed forms due to their cost-effectiveness. The poultry industry is gradually recovering from the avian flu epidemic of 2022, which significantly impacted production. Despite these challenges, poultry remains one of the most affordable meats, bolstered by increased imports following the lifting of EU restrictions on Ukrainian imports, resulting in lower prices compared to other meats.
Expanding Horizons: Export Market Developments
The visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to France on May 6 marked a significant milestone in the French meat export sector. Key agreements were signed, including a zoning agreement for managing highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks and access to the Chinese market for white pork offal and processed pork proteins. These agreements are expected to boost the sector's export revenue by approximately 10%, potentially adding 26 million EUR to the industry.
Marc Fesneau, the French Minister of Agriculture, emphasized the importance of these agreements, stating, “France will continue to work on deepening exchanges with China in the agricultural field.” The recent opening of the South Korean market to French beef, confirmed in June, further illustrates the successful efforts to expand export markets for French meats, particularly to regions with high demand.
In the poultry sector, efforts are focused on reopening markets post-avian influenza and securing acceptance of vaccines for the fattened duck sector, including foie gras, duck breast, and duck confit. As of May 3, 2024, the risk level for avian influenza in France has been classified as "negligible," paving the way for the return of product availability and export opportunities. Negotiations are ongoing with China, a market with immense potential, and Japan, the largest market for French foie gras outside the EU, which currently restricts products derived from vaccinated animals.
The French meat industry continues to demonstrate resilience and adaptability, leveraging new agreements and market openings to enhance its global presence. As demand for high-quality French meats grows internationally, the sector is well-positioned to capitalize on these opportunities, ensuring continued growth and success on the world stage.