In a notable milestone for its poultry industry, Belgium reported the slaughter of 314.9 million chickens last year, marking a 1.7% increase from the previous year and establishing a record high since the start of official records in 2008, according to the national statistics bureau Statbel.
Chickens – A Third of National Meat Production
The chicken industry has become increasingly significant, producing 543 million kgs of meat, which accounts for nearly one-third of the total meat production in Belgium. In comparison, the pig sector remains the largest meat producer, contributing 55% or approximately 951 million kgs of the national output. However, the dominance of pork is gradually declining as poultry production continues to grow.
Poultry Farming in Belgium
As of 2024, Belgium was home to around 1,700 poultry farms, housing approximately 38.5 million broiler chickens, close to 9 million laying hens, 4.6 million pullets, and about 2.78 million breeding hens. This brings the total poultry population to 55.6 million, showcasing a near doubling in numbers over the past two decades. The majority of these farms are located in the Flanders region of the country.
The Challenge of Avian Influenza
Like other European nations, Belgian poultry producers faced significant challenges with outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza in recent months. The majority of reported cases were concentrated in areas such as Veurne and Roeselare. The Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (FASFC) documented a total of 20 cases, with the latest occurring on January 26.
“The economic consequences—both for poultry holders and the nation—are substantial,” noted Landsbond Pluimvee, a sector organization. Fortunately, FASFC has recently lifted all regional protection zones, though the confinement of all poultry remains mandatory across Belgium.
