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The compound feed production in the EU-271 in 2012 reached an estimated level of 151.9 mio. t, i.e. the same volume as in 2011 and 2010, according to the preliminary statistical data provided by FEFAC members.
While pig feed production dropped by 2%, cattle and poultry feed have seen their production grow respectively by +1.5 and +1%. As a consequence, poultry feed consolidated its position of leading segment of EU compound feed production slightly above pig feed.
The most important factors which have weighed on the EU feed demand in 2012 were the still fragile economic situation of the pig sector and soaring feed material costs.
Among the largest producing countries, Germany and UK performed rather well, with annual growth slightly above 2%, while France and Poland remained stable and Spain, Italy and The Netherlands saw their production fall at rates between -1 and -2%.
Market Outlook for 2013
FEFAC market experts foresee a stabilisation in poultry feed production, a further reduction in pig feed production (-1%) and a slight increase in cattle feed demand (+1%).
Further market uncertainties are linked to the impact of the implementation of the new group-housing requirements for sows. Overall, compound feed production is expected to remain unchanged vs. 2012.
Friday January 18, 2013/ FEFAC/ European Union.
http://www.fefac.eu
