INTERVIEW: India’s broiler production continues to expand 6%-7% annually, says Poultry India head

India's poultry sector continues to see steady growth in broiler and layer production in 2026-27, driven by rising domestic demand and urban consumption, said Uday Singh Bayas, President of Poultry India, in an interview with S&P Global Energy on Dec. 26.

"Broiler production continues to expand by 6%-7% annually, mostly driven by rising urban consumption and affordability," Bayas said.

Growth is concentrated in states such as Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana, where demand is high. "The domestic requirement in these areas is quite good, and meat consumption is gradually increasing," he said.

The layer segment is expanding at a moderate but stable pace. "With increased focus on productivity per bird, automation, and value-added products, there's constant growth being noticed," Bayas said. Overall, both broiler and layer sectors are expected to maintain steady growth, he added.

Modern poultry equipment is helping improve production efficiency and competitiveness. "Automation in feeding, climate control, waste management, and monitoring improves feed conversion, bird health, and labor efficiency," he added.

Feed costs, disease challenges

High feed costs and disease pressure are the biggest challenges for Indian poultry farmers. "Feed accounts for 65%-70% of production costs, and prices fluctuate with corn and soybean availability, directly affecting farmer margins," Bayas said.

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The ethanol industry's use of corn has further constrained supply. "That is why we are requesting the government to open for genetically modified corn. If GM [corn] is available, farmers can produce better and cheaper feed, benefiting both poultry and ethanol industries," he explained.

Disease management has also become more critical. "Disease has become a common phenomenon worldwide. Proper vaccination, farm-level training, and strong surveillance are essential, especially for small and medium-sized farms," Bayas said.

He also emphasized domestic vaccine development. "Indigenous vaccine R&D will make poultry self-sustainable in India and benefit smaller farmers," he added.

Export potential

India's poultry sector holds significant export potential in processed chicken meat, table eggs, and packaged egg products, but infrastructure and policy challenges remain, said Bayas. "We need clear export-oriented poultry zones and disease-free compartmentalization," he said, stressing the importance of harmonized certification systems aligned with international norms.

Exporters currently face multiple licensing hurdles. "For Europe, the Middle East, and the US, exporters have to go pillar to pillar for approvals. A single-window system would significantly help," Bayas explained.

He also highlighted the need for cold chain investment and quality standards. "Traceability, strict antibiotic monitoring, and integrated cold chains will enhance India's credibility as a reliable poultry exporter," he added. Strengthening HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) compliance is essential to meet international standards and scale up exports efficiently.

Domestic demand rising

Domestic egg and chicken consumption is growing but remains below international levels. "Per capita egg consumption in India is around 103, while Telangana and Andhra Pradesh reach 180/year," Bayas said.

Chicken consumption currently stands at 4-5 kg/year per person, which could rise to 14-16 kg/year with awareness campaigns. "Eggs and chicken are affordable, high-quality protein. Awareness campaigns in rural areas, tier 2 and tier 3 cities, and Eastern, Central, and Northeast India can significantly boost consumption," he said.

Bayas also highlighted the sector's economic contribution. "The poultry industry contributes around 1%-2% of India's GDP. With modernization and consumer awareness, we can achieve faster growth and better farmer incomes," he added.