May Poultry Market Outlook

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The current outlook for the poultry industry reveals a mix of modest production changes, fluctuating export expectations, and adjusted price projections across broilers, table eggs, and turkeys.

Broiler Production and Market Trends

Total broiler production has been revised downwards due to lower-than-expected production in the first quarter. Despite this adjustment, production projections for the remaining quarters remain unchanged. Looking ahead, broiler production is anticipated to grow by 1.6% year-over-year, signaling a steady increase in output.

However, the broiler export market tells a different story. Exports are projected to decrease by 5.2% compared to the previous year. This decline is attributed to diminished international demand and less competitive pricing. A slight recovery is expected, with exports predicted to rise by 2% from the revised levels.

On the pricing front, wholesale broiler prices have been adjusted downwards based on recent data. The average broiler price in the coming year is projected to be 1 cent lower than the current average, reflecting ongoing market adjustments.

Table Egg Production and Pricing

In contrast to broilers, the outlook for table egg production has seen a slight upward adjustment based on first-quarter data. The production projections for the subsequent quarters remain consistent with previous estimates. Table egg production is expected to increase by 2.9%, indicating a healthy growth trajectory.

Egg prices have been adjusted downwards in response to recent price trends. The average price in the coming year is projected to fall by 42 cents from the current annual average, suggesting a potential easing in the market.

Egg and egg-product exports have been revised upwards based on recent data. These exports are anticipated to increase further, though they will still constitute only 2.8% of total production, highlighting the domestic focus of this market segment.

Turkey Production and Export Dynamics

Turkey production projections have been lowered, reflecting reduced placements and some losses due to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). The outlook shows a slight increase in production, indicating a cautious recovery.

Turkey exports have also been adjusted downwards based on current data. The projection shows a marginal increase of 5 million pounds, reflecting a relatively static export market.

Turkey prices have been adjusted down by 9 cents per pound based on recent trends. The projection anticipates a 10-cent increase over the current average price, suggesting some price recovery in the market.

Conclusion

The poultry market outlook presents a complex picture with variations in production, export, and pricing dynamics across different poultry segments. While broiler production and exports face challenges, table egg production shows promising growth. The turkey market remains cautious with slight production increases and marginal export growth. Overall, the industry continues to navigate through fluctuating market conditions and evolving international demand.