South Korea Poultry Feed Market- Trend Analysis & Forecast to 2030

S South Korea poultry feed market valued at US$ ** million and demand reached ** thousand tonnes in 2023. The South Korea poultry feed market is poised for significant growth, driven by increased demand for high-quality poultry products and advancements in animal nutrition. With steady expansion in commercial livestock farming and a focus on sustainable feed ingredients, the market is adapting to evolving consumer preferences. Key insights include a growing reliance on imports for specialized feed components and the rising role of technology in optimizing feed formulations to enhance poultry productivity.

Market/ Product Overview

South Korea’s poultry feed market represents a vital segment of its broader livestock industry, contributing to the production of high-quality poultry meat and eggs. The market has seen steady growth over the past decade due to rising domestic demand for poultry products and increasing investments in livestock farming technologies.

The industry is characterized by a mix of domestic production and imports, with a notable dependence on foreign suppliers for specific feed ingredients like soymeal and maize. Rising consumer awareness regarding food safety and quality has spurred demand for premium feed formulations that ensure the health and productivity of poultry. Furthermore, governmental policies supporting the livestock sector and initiatives to reduce dependence on feed imports have played a pivotal role in shaping the market dynamics. By 2030, the South Korea poultry feed market is expected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 4.5%, underscoring its importance in the nation’s agricultural economy.

South Korea Commercial Livestock Farming Trend

Commercial livestock farming in South Korea has witnessed transformative growth, fueled by increasing urbanization and changing dietary patterns that favor poultry consumption. The poultry sector, in particular, has become a cornerstone of the industry, driven by its shorter production cycle and lower cost compared to other livestock types. The cost of production of broiler poultry in South Korea hovered in the range of US$ **per kg live weight, in which feed component accounted for 58-60% share.

Farmers are adopting innovative practices such as precision feeding and biosecurity measures to enhance productivity and mitigate risks associated with disease outbreaks. Vertical integration, where large firms oversee production from feed manufacturing to poultry processing, is becoming more prevalent. Additionally, sustainability concerns have led to the adoption of environmentally friendly farming practices, including waste management systems and the use of alternative protein sources in feed formulations. These advancements highlight the evolving landscape of commercial livestock farming in South Korea.

Animal Feed Production and Consumption Trend in South Korea

South Korea’s animal feed industry has grown steadily, with poultry feed accounting for a significant share of overall feed production. In 2023, the country produced approximately ** million metric tons of animal feed, with poultry feed contributing nearly **% of the total.

The consumption trend reflects a growing preference for compound feeds over traditional feeds, driven by their superior nutritional balance and ease of use. Additionally, urbanization and rising incomes have fueled demand for high-quality poultry products, indirectly boosting feed consumption. Feed manufacturers are increasingly focusing on customizing formulations to meet specific nutritional needs, ensuring optimal growth and health of poultry. Innovations in feed processing, such as pelletization and extrusion, have also enhanced the quality and efficiency of feed products. These factors collectively underscore the robust demand for animal feed in South Korea.

South Korea Poultry Feed Production Trend

Poultry feed production in South Korea has seen consistent growth, supported by advancements in feed manufacturing technologies and increased demand for poultry products. In 2023, the country produced around 8 million metric tons of poultry feed, reflecting a CAGR of **% over the past five years.

Local feed mills dominate the production landscape, with a strong emphasis on quality and traceability. However, the industry faces challenges in sourcing raw materials, particularly maize and soybean meal, which are largely imported. To mitigate this, some manufacturers are exploring alternative ingredients such as insect protein and locally grown grains. The adoption of automated systems in feed mills has also streamlined production processes, reducing costs and ensuring consistency in feed quality. By 2030, poultry feed production is projected to reach 10 million metric tons, driven by technological innovations and rising domestic demand.

The demand for poultry feed in South Korea is primarily driven by the growing consumption of poultry meat and eggs. In 2023, per capita poultry consumption reached an estimated ** kilograms, underscoring the sector’s importance in the national diet.

This demand surge has prompted farmers to increase poultry production, which in turn boosts the requirement for high-quality feed. Layer and broiler feeds are the most in-demand categories, with specialized formulations catering to the distinct needs of each poultry type. Urbanization and changing lifestyles have further augmented demand for processed poultry products, creating a ripple effect on feed consumption. The rising trend of antibiotic-free and organic poultry farming is also shaping feed preferences, with farmers opting for additive-free and natural feed ingredients.

South Korea Major Feed Ingredients Used

The primary feed ingredients used in South Korea’s poultry feed include maize, soybean meal, wheat, and fishmeal. Maize and soybean meal are the most significant, accounting for approximately **% of feed formulations due to their high energy and protein content.

Other ingredients, such as rice bran, dried distillers’ grains with solubles (DDGS), and oilseed meals, are also used to enhance feed quality. To address sustainability concerns, the industry is increasingly exploring alternative protein sources, including insect protein and algae-based ingredients. The reliance on imports for key ingredients remains a challenge, prompting efforts to develop local substitutes and improve supply chain resilience.

Market Growth Factors

The South Korea poultry feed market is buoyed by several growth factors. Rising urbanization and income levels have led to increased demand for poultry products, positioning poultry farming as a lucrative venture. Government initiatives supporting livestock development, such as subsidies for feed mills and research into alternative feed ingredients, have further stimulated market growth.

Technological advancements in feed manufacturing, including the use of enzymes and probiotics, are enhancing feed efficiency and poultry health. The trend toward antibiotic-free and organic farming is driving innovation in feed formulations, with a focus on natural and additive-free ingredients. Additionally, the expanding export potential of South Korean poultry products is encouraging farmers to adopt superior feed solutions to meet international standards. These factors collectively contribute to the vibrant growth of the poultry feed market.

South Korea Poultry Feed Market Restraints & Challenges

Despite its growth potential, the South Korea poultry feed market faces several challenges. A significant reliance on imported raw materials, particularly maize and soybean meal, exposes the industry to price volatility and supply chain disruptions. Trade policies and geopolitical tensions further exacerbate these risks.

Environmental concerns related to intensive poultry farming and feed production, such as greenhouse gas emissions and waste management, are drawing increased scrutiny from regulators and consumers alike. Additionally, the high cost of advanced feed formulations and equipment may deter small-scale farmers from adopting modern practices. These challenges underscore the need for strategic interventions to sustain market growth.

South Korea Poultry Feed Industry: Supply Chain Constraints and Value Chain Challenges

The poultry feed supply chain in South Korea is marked by bottlenecks that hinder its efficiency. Dependence on imported raw materials creates vulnerabilities, especially during periods of global supply disruptions. Inadequate storage and transportation infrastructure further exacerbate these issues, leading to increased costs and feed wastage.

The fragmented nature of the feed manufacturing industry also poses challenges, with small and medium-sized enterprises struggling to compete with larger, vertically integrated firms. Additionally, compliance with stringent regulatory standards for feed safety and quality adds to operational complexities. Addressing these bottlenecks requires investments in infrastructure, technological upgrades, and stronger coordination among stakeholders.

South Korea Trend of Poultry Feed Demand & End-Use Livestock Type

Poultry feed demand in South Korea is predominantly driven by the broiler and layer segments, which together account for over 90% of feed consumption. Broiler feed demand is fueled by the growing consumption of poultry meat, while the layer segment benefits from the rising demand for eggs as a protein source.

Specialized feed formulations tailored to specific poultry types, such as starter, grower, and finisher feeds, are gaining popularity. The trend toward antibiotic-free and organic farming is also influencing feed preferences, with farmers opting for high-quality, natural ingredients to meet consumer expectations.

South Korea Poultry Feed Trade (Export & Import) Trend

South Korea relies heavily on imports for key feed ingredients like maize, soybean meal, and wheat. In 2023, the country imported approximately ** million metric tons of feed ingredients, primarily from the United States, China, Brazil, Australia, and Argentina.

Exports of finished poultry feed are limited but gradually increasing as domestic manufacturers explore regional markets. Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Philippines are the major export destination for South Korea feed preparations. South Korea exported ** thousand tonnes of feeds and imported ** tonnes of feed products. Trade policies and international partnerships play a crucial role in shaping the import-export landscape. Efforts to diversify suppliers and enhance local production capacity are underway to mitigate trade-related risks and ensure a stable supply of feed ingredients.

South Korea Poultry Feed Market Competitive Analysis

The competitive landscape of South Korea’s poultry feed market is characterized by a mix of domestic and international players. Leading companies such as CJ CheilJedang, Nonghyup Feed, and Harim Group dominate the market, leveraging their extensive distribution networks and advanced manufacturing capabilities.

Foreign companies, including Cargill and ADM, also hold a significant presence, offering premium feed products and technical expertise. The market is witnessing increased competition as smaller players adopt innovative strategies, such as niche product offerings and collaborations with poultry farmers. Investment in research and development to enhance feed formulations and sustainability practices remains a key differentiator among competitors.

List of Key Companies (Producers/ Processor/ Exporters),

■ CJ CheilJedang
■ Nonghyup Feed
■ Harim Group
■ Cargill Agri Purina, Inc.
■ ADM Korea
■ Sajo Dongawon Co., Ltd.
■ Heung Sung Feed Co., Ltd.
■ Daehan feed Co., Ltd.
■ Samyang Corporation
■ Trouw Nutrition
■ Nutreco N.V.
■ Hanil Feed Co.

Future Outlook

The South Korea poultry feed market is expected to witness steady growth through 2030, driven by rising demand for poultry products and advancements in feed manufacturing technologies. Efforts to enhance local production capacity and reduce dependence on imports will play a pivotal role in shaping the market’s trajectory. Increasing consumer preference for sustainable and additive-free feed solutions presents opportunities for innovation and market expansion. With continued investments and strategic collaborations, the industry is well-positioned for a promising future.