Poland’s poultry industry at the turn of the tide

The poultry industry in Poland and Europe navigates a complex environment, comprising rising global demand and increasing regulatory pressure on EU farmers.

Enhancing competition

On the global arena, Poland is facing rising competition from emerging broiler meat exporters. For example, the Ukrainian poultry sector is rebuilding exports and developing cooperation with markets in the Middle East and the UK. Asian countries are increasing imports from Turkey, Thailand, and China. According to Podstawka, these destinations will also be key for Polish exports in 2026.

Amendments to the Mercosur agreement

Between January and September 2025, the value of Polish poultry exports increased by 19.3% year-on-year, according to a report by Credit Agricole Bank.

One of the key achievements of 2025 was the adoption by the European Parliament’s Committee on International Trade of a draft regulation introducing a safeguard clause in the EU-Mercosur trade agreement for agricultural products. In particular, said Podstawka, the amendments are intended to protect the European egg market from an influx of eggs from Mercosur countries.

A year of significant changes

This year is expected to bring about significant changes to the European poultry industry. “We clearly see that 2026 will be a year of major structural changes. Growing global demand is happening amid European cost and regulatory constraints,” said Podstawka, adding that for the European poultry industry, Poland can play a stabilising role – as an efficient, modern, and crisis-resistant producer.

He noted that the state’s priority should now be to support investments in biosecurity and export development. “This is the most effective form of protecting national and EU food security,” Podstawka emphasised.

Positive regulatory shifts

On a positive note, Poland’s poultry farmers believe that positive changes are beginning to occur in the regulatory field, as legislators show a growing commitment to enhancing European food security.

“As we enter 2026, we see apparent structural shifts as member states are beginning to emphasise the strategic role of egg and poultry production,” Podstawka noted.

“Poland is part of this trend, but we need real dialogue between the industry and the administration, based on practice, not just regulations. Biosecurity, stable supply chains, and export support are the foundations of food security and competitiveness against non- EU producers,” said Podstawka.