Chicken meat is one of the most widely consumed and versatile meats in the world, making it a highly sought-after commodity in international trade. The global import market for chicken meat is dominated by several countries that exhibit significant demand for this protein source. In this article, we will explore the top import markets for chicken meat based on the import value data sourced from the IndexBox market intelligence platform.

1. China

China takes the lead as the world’s largest importer of chicken meat with an import value of $4.1 billion in 2022. The growing middle class and changing dietary preferences have contributed to the increasing demand for poultry products in China. The country’s import market for chicken meat is expected to continue its upward trajectory in the coming years.

2. United Kingdom

The United Kingdom ranks second among the top import markets for chicken meat, with an import value of $1.8 billion in 2022. Despite being a major producer of poultry, the UK relies on imports to meet its domestic demand. The UK’s import market for chicken meat is driven by its thriving foodservice industry and changing consumption patterns.

3. France

France is another significant player in the global import market for chicken meat, with an import value of $1.6 billion in 2022. The French population’s strong preference for white meat, including chicken, drives the import demand. Additionally, France is a key market for processed chicken products, which further boosts its import value.

4. Germany

Germany shares the third position with France in terms of import value, also amounting to $1.6 billion in 2022. The country’s robust food processing industry and high per capita consumption of chicken contribute to its substantial imports. The demand for processed chicken products, such as sausages and ready-to-eat meals, drives Germany’s import market.

5. Japan

Japan ranks fifth among the top import markets for chicken meat, with an import value of $1.5 billion in 2022. The country’s consumption of chicken meat has increased significantly in recent years due to changing dietary habits and a preference for lean protein sources. Japan heavily relies on imports to meet its domestic demand for chicken.

6. Netherlands

The Netherlands shares the fifth position with Japan, also recording an import value of $1.5 billion in 2022. The country serves as an important distribution hub for chicken meat in Europe. The Netherlands imports significant quantities of chicken to cater to its domestic demand and for re-exporting purposes to neighboring countries.

7. Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia ranks seventh among the world’s top import markets for chicken meat, with an import value of $1.2 billion in 2022. As one of the largest consumers of poultry globally, the Saudi Arabian market offers immense opportunities for chicken meat exporters. The country heavily relies on imports to meet its domestic demand for chicken.

8. United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) holds the eighth position in terms of import value, amounting to $1.1 billion in 2022. The UAE’s reliance on imported chicken meat stems from its growing population, rising tourism sector, and increasing demand for processed poultry products. The country’s import market for chicken meat is expected to grow further in the coming years.

9. Mexico

Mexico ranks ninth among the top import markets for chicken meat, with an import value of $966.9 million in 2022. The country’s preference for affordable protein sources, coupled with a growing population and rising urbanization, has fueled the demand for imported chicken meat. Mexico heavily relies on imports to supplement its domestic chicken production.

10. Hong Kong SAR

Hong Kong SAR completes the list of the world’s top import markets for chicken meat, with an import value of $583.1 million in 2022. The region’s high per capita consumption of poultry, coupled with limited domestic production, drives the demand for imported chicken. Hong Kong SAR extensively relies on imports to satisfy its chicken meat requirements.

In conclusion, the global import markets for chicken meat are driven by various factors such as changing consumption patterns, increasing population, growing tourism, and thriving foodservice industries. China, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Mexico, and Hong Kong SAR are the world’s best import markets for chicken meat based on their import values in 2022.

Source: IndexBox Market Intelligence Platform