A change to monitor, without jumping to conclusions
Chinese imports of pork reached their lowest level in a decade in 2026. According to the outlook reported in the news, they are not expected to rise sharply again in 2027. China would therefore not be an outlet capable, on its own, of supporting global demand for pork in the coming months. The outlook mentioned for beef points in the same direction: it would be unwise to count on a recovery in China to absorb the volumes available on international markets.
This information primarily concerns the pork and beef sectors. It is nevertheless of interest to poultry farmers, as the markets for different meats can evolve in relation to one another. A change in trade or demand in one sector can influence buyers’ choices, product availability and the interest shown in animal proteins. But it is not possible to automatically infer an increase or a decrease in demand for chicken in Côte d'Ivoire.
What this could change for poultry
For an Ivorian poultry farmer, the key point is not to base decisions solely on an international trend. The local market also depends on purchasing power, eating habits, market supply, the sales period and competition between available products. Developments in China are an indicator to monitor, not a guarantee of additional outlets for chicken producers.
It is therefore useful to regularly monitor the selling prices observed in your area, feedback from traders and the rate at which poultry is sold. When preparing a flock, it is better to start with a realistic estimate of sales, organise feeding and poultry management, then avoid increasing volumes solely on the basis of a foreign forecast. Keeping good records for each flock also helps compare the farm’s results over time.
Caution is all the more important because international news can be quickly summarised or interpreted too broadly. A change in pork or beef trade does not automatically translate to Ivorian chicken. The realities of each sector and each consumption area remain decisive.
In practical terms, for a poultry farmer in Côte d'Ivoire
Monitor your local market before scheduling your next batches and discuss their needs with your regular buyers. Adjust your volumes to your management capacity and the outlets you know, rather than to an isolated global forecast. To prepare for the arrival of day-old chicks, contact NEXTEKCI for information on availability and prices for the day, shared on WhatsApp. Professional carriers can be put in touch with customers departing from Agnibilékrou on the routes to Abidjan, Bouaké and Daloa.
--- *Source: Réussir Volailles — summary and analysis by NEXTEKCI.*