The farm animal feed market - Italy

The global farm animal feed market, with an expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.62% between 2017 and 2023, has seen growth due to increased demand for animal-based foods. Italy's production in 2021 reached 15,625 thousand tons, placing it sixth in Europe, indicating a revival post-pandemic. Despite low per capita meat consumption, Italian demand for higher quality and organic meat, which often requires specialty feeds, is on the rise. The supply side, however, is challenged by rising production costs, which in 2020 and 2021 saw producer prices increase by 15.6% and 42%, respectively. The market has also been influenced by the Covid-19 pandemic, with a slowdown in the Ho.Re.Ca sector and disrupted raw material markets, although recovery has been noted post-crisis. Nonetheless, producers remain concerned about cost increases and the potential demand drop, further complicated by the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak in Europe and the war in Ukraine affecting grain prices and economic stability..Trends and Dynamics in the Italian Farm Animal Feed Market The Italian farm animal feed market, a crucial segment of the agri-food industry, has been experiencing a phase of revitalization post-pandemic with production volumes and turnover on the rise. The increased attention to the dietary health of animals and the incorporation of additives in feed have been significant factors driving this growth. The sector recorded a production of between 15 and 16 million tons of feed in recent years, positioning Italy among the top six producers within Europe. Despite the general increase in demand, there are concerns over the steady growth in production costs, especially for key raw materials like corn and soybeans. These rising costs pose a significant threat to market operators, potentially jeopardizing the supply chain. Moreover, fluctuations in the market due to the pandemic, and the cumulative effects of swine diseases and government environmental policies, have had an impact on production dynamics. Demand for farm animal feed in Italy primarily follows the meat demand, with particular emphasis on higher quality meat that promises healthy and natural nutrition for the animals. There is also a clear trend towards consumer preference for premium-grade meat, which has led to a slight increase in household spending on meat products despite Italy having the lowest per capita meat consumption rate in Europe. Furthermore, the Italian demand for livestock feed mainly concentrates in the northern regions, especially in areas with a high density of meat processing enterprises such as Emilia Romagna and Lombardy. The market demand is notably divided according to animal species—poultry, pigs, and cattle—each requiring specifically formulated feed to meet their distinct nutritional needs. The Italian market has also shown resilience in the face of challenges brought on by the pandemic, with a pivot towards more stable and increased production levels, and a return to pre-crisis levels of trade. Imports and exports of animal feed have regained vibrancy, with France and Germany being crucial import partners, while exports remain diversified among various countries, including the Philippines and Russia. In summary, the Italian farm animal feed market reflects a complex interplay of rising demand for quality meat, challenges of increasing production costs, and the repercussions of global health crises. Nevertheless, the sector exhibits robust dynamics and resilience with potential for future growth, driven by an increasing population and global demand for animal-derived foods..Market Leaders Shaping the Farm Animal Feed Industry The farm animal feed industry involves a diverse array of companies which vary in size and scope of operations. These players often provide a range of products including compound feeds, additives, and other nutritional solutions tailored to the needs of different types of farm animals. Below is an overview of significant players, each bringing unique contributions to the sector. ### Emilia Romagna-based Enterprises Operating out of Italy's principal meat industry hub, these companies are often vertically integrated, managing both feed production and farming operations. The prominence of the region in animal rearing and meat processing has cultivated a dense network of businesses specializing in high-quality feed production, leveraging local agricultural resources and livestock expertise. ### Global Conglomerates With a broad international footprint, global conglomerates command significant market presence. They are heavily invested in research and development, driving innovation in the industry. Their expansive distribution channels ensure a steady supply of raw materials and finished products worldwide, maintaining operational resilience and market stability. ### Specialty Companies While some market actors are defined by their wide-ranging portfolios, others distinguish themselves through specialization. These companies concentrate on certain animal categories, such as poultry or swine, or provide feeds tailored for organic farming or specialty diets. Their targeted focus allows for deep expertise in particular niches of the feed market. ### Cooperative Societies These cooperatives play a critical role in supporting local farmers by providing access to high-quality feed products and related services. Their community-based approach often results in more competitive pricing and a keen understanding of regional agricultural demands. ### Major European Suppliers Top players from France and Germany cater to a significant portion of Italy's feed imports, demonstrating a robust trade relationship. These suppliers leverage their production capabilities and geographic proximity to meet the Italian market's demand for diverse feed products. ### Emerging Markets Contributors Countries like Thailand, which rank among the top suppliers for Italy's imports, showcase the growing influence of emerging markets in the global feed industry. Their ability to produce and export feed ingredients at competitive prices demonstrates the increasing interconnectivity of the international trade in farm animal feed. Despite facing challenges such as fluctuating raw material costs and the impact of global economic shifts, these industry leaders demonstrate adaptability and a commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the market. Their collective efforts ensure a steady supply of nutritious feed that supports the agriculture sector and ultimately contributes to food security and quality.

Inforamtion

• Number of pages : 30 pages
• Format : Digital and PDF versions
• Last update : 13/07/2023

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Summary and extracts

List of charts

• Farm feed market size forecasts
• Turnover and value of farm animal feed production
• Import-export animal feed
• Breakdown of animal feed imports
• Breakdown of animal feed exports
• Feed production by animal type
• Producer prices meat industry
• Average monthly household expenditure on meat
• Number of enterprises in the farm animal feed production sector (ateco 10.91)
• Legal form of feed production enterprises for farm animals
• Number of people employed in the farm animal feed production sector (ateco 10.91)
• Farm animal feed producer price index

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