Irish Poultry Exports Soar Across EU and Global Markets
Irish poultry is known for its quality and great taste
Irish poultry exports have been on a strong growth trajectory in recent years, reaching more international plates than ever. This trend is particularly evident in the European Union (EU) market and in diverse global destinations. In this post, we’ll explore key statistics from 2023–2025, the drivers behind this export boom, and the unique benefits of Irish poultry (from quality to sustainability) that give it an edge over global competition. The tone is friendly and informative – perfect for international buyers and importers eager to learn about Ireland’s poultry success story.
Irish Poultry Export Growth: By the Numbers (2023–2025)
Irish poultry meat exports have expanded significantly. In 2023, primary poultry exports rose about 7% year-on-year to roughly €170 million . This continued an upward trend from previous years. For context, industry reports noted a 14% jump in export value in 2022 , highlighting a strong post-pandemic rebound. Thanks to this growth, Ireland ranked among the world’s top 30 poultry exporters in 2023 , impressive for a small country.
Critically, the EU market fueled much of this surge. Irish poultry shipments to EU countries jumped by 24% in 2023 – a gain that offset weaker sales to the UK (historically Ireland’s main poultry export market) . In fact, the EU accounted for about one-third of Irish poultry export value in 2023, up from roughly a quarter previously . Major continental buyers included the Netherlands, France, and Spain. For example, exports to the Netherlands and Spain saw some of the fastest growth between 2022 and 2023 , as European processors and consumers turned to Irish suppliers.
Irish poultry has also been making inroads beyond Europe. Exports to international markets outside the EU (for instance, Africa and Asia) nearly doubled their share over the past decade. By 2023, around 22% of Ireland’s poultry export value was going to non-EU destinations . Notably, trade with Africa rebounded – South Africa in particular reopened its market to Irish poultry in 2023 after lifting avian flu restrictions . This led to a strong increase in exports to South Africa (about €10 million in 2024) and new sales to markets like Ghana . Irish suppliers have benefited from filling gaps where local production or other exporters faced setbacks.
Irish Chicken Wings are a popular export
While the overall trend is upward, export figures did adjust slightly in 2024. Irish primary poultry exports in 2024 totaled approximately €140 million, a modest 3% dip from the 2023 peak . This was largely due to a short-term oversupply in Europe – Irish poultry shipments to continental EU fell by 22% in 2024 to about €35 million . However, this was balanced by strong demand in the UK, where Irish poultry exports surged 19% to roughly €85 million in 2024 . Trade to other global markets held steady at ~€20 million . In other words, Ireland’s poultry export base remains broad and resilient, even as regional demand shifts.
What’s Driving the Export Boom?
Several key factors are behind the rapid growth of Irish poultry exports:
Rising Production Capacity: Irish poultry farmers and processors have expanded output to meet export demand. In 2024, Irish poultry production grew ~3%, with a record 115 million birds processed at export-approved plants . Modern processing facilities and efficient farming practices allow Ireland to consistently supply large volumes of quality poultry meat.
Strong Market Demand: Global appetite for poultry is climbing as consumers seek affordable, healthy protein. Poultry is seen as a versatile and lean meat, with a “favourable image” among health-conscious and budget-conscious buyers worldwide . In the EU, poultry consumption has been rising in response to high prices of other meats and changing diets. This creates robust demand that Irish exporters are well-placed to serve.
Competitive Pricing and Trade Access: Irish poultry has benefited from competitive pricing and trade agreements. The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement means Irish poultry enters the UK tariff-free, preserving that crucial market post-Brexit. At the same time, Ireland as an EU member enjoys access to EU free trade agreements globally. For instance, Ireland was cleared in 2023 to resume exports to South Africa (taking advantage of an EU trade deal and a pause in anti-dumping duties) . Gaining such market access exactly when other suppliers were constrained (e.g. due to avian influenza bans) allowed Irish exports to capture new opportunities.
Shifting Global Supply Dynamics: Production challenges in other countries have opened doors for Ireland. In recent years, avian influenza outbreaks hit poultry flocks in parts of Europe, Asia, and even major exporters like Brazil and the US. Importers turned to Ireland’s stable, high-health-status supply to fill these gaps. Additionally, declines in EU pigmeat output (due to disease and farm cutbacks) have led some European buyers to substitute with more poultry , further boosting demand for Irish chicken.
In summary, Ireland’s ability to increase supply, paired with rising global demand and savvy market positioning, has underpinned its poultry export growth. As one Irish export review noted, 2023’s export gains were a direct result of higher output and expanding sales into key EU markets – a formula likely to continue driving the sector.
Juicy and tender Irish Chicken Drumsticks
Irish Poultry’s Competitive Edge: Quality, Safety and Sustainability
International buyers are not only drawn by Ireland’s volumes, but by the high quality and trustworthiness of Irish poultry. Irish producers have a strong reputation in several areas that set them apart from global competition:
🥇 Exceptional Quality Standards: Irish chicken is farmed and processed to stringent standards. Producers participate in the Bord Bia Quality Assurance Scheme, which is built on best practices in farming, humane handling, and processing. Food safety and bird welfare are cornerstone principles of these standards . Many Irish companies have won quality awards and certifications, reflecting the tenderness and flavor of their chicken. International buyers can expect consistent, premium product – whether fresh or frozen – when sourcing from Ireland.
🔒 Food Safety & Traceability: Ireland’s food safety regime is world-class. As an EU member, it adheres to strict EU food safety laws (no hormones or chlorine washes, for example). Beyond that, Irish poultry is fully traceable “from farm to fork.” Every flock is tagged and tracked via national databases, allowing any product to be traced back to its farm of origin. Traceability isn’t a mere formality in Ireland – it’s a structural pillar of the food system . This gives importers confidence in the supply chain. In the rare event of an issue, the source can be pinpointed and isolated rapidly. Such robust traceability and hygiene controls help Irish poultry consistently meet the high food safety expectations of markets like the EU, Middle East, and Asia.
🐔 High Animal Welfare: Animal welfare is a priority for Irish farmers. Chickens are raised under strict welfare codes, with regular veterinary oversight. The national quality schemes require farms to provide adequate space, enrichment, and humane handling at all stages . Many Irish farms exceed basic EU welfare requirements – for instance, by adopting controlled atmospheric stunning in processing or offering enriched housing conditions. This focus on bird welfare not only aligns with consumer ethics but also results in better-quality meat (as stress is minimized). Ireland is also free of certain poultry diseases that are common elsewhere, thanks to rigorous biosecurity, which means buyers get product from healthy flocks maintained to high welfare standards.
🌱 Sustainability & Green Farming: Sustainability is a hallmark of Irish agriculture, and poultry is no exception. Ireland’s Origin Green program – the world’s first national food sustainability scheme – includes virtually all poultry producers. Over 90% of Ireland’s food and drink exports (including poultry) come from Origin Green certified members . This means that when you import Irish poultry, you are sourcing from farms and processors committed to reducing their environmental footprint. These producers track and improve metrics like feed efficiency, energy use, and waste reduction. Ireland’s mild climate also gives it a natural advantage: poultry houses often require less energy for heating or cooling compared to continental operations, helping lower carbon emissions. For buyers, the Origin Green badge is a reassurance that the chicken was produced with care for the environment and local communities. Sustainability isn’t just talk – over 55,000 Irish farms and 300 food companies are audited and verified annually on their sustainability actions , ensuring real accountability.
🔍 Reliability & Traceable Supply Chains: Irish poultry processors are known for reliability and service. Companies operate under internationally certified food safety management systems (e.g. ISO, BRCGS standards). Many have decades of export experience, supplying major retail and foodservice clients in Europe. They understand importers’ needs around consistent supply, labeling, and logistics. Furthermore, Ireland’s traceability systems and regular audits (including weekly on-farm audits in areas like carbon footprint and animal health ) mean that buyers receive not just a product, but data-backed assurance of its provenance and quality. This level of transparency is increasingly valued in global markets – and Ireland is at the forefront of providing it.
By combining strict quality controls, a focus on welfare, and genuine sustainability efforts, Irish poultry producers have built a reputation as trusted suppliers. As Bord Bia (the Irish Food Board) highlights, these standards give international customers confidence that Irish food is “safe, traceable and farmed with care.” In a world where consumers and regulators alike demand higher standards, Irish poultry stands out as a product that buyers can source with peace of mind.
Looking Ahead
The recent growth in Irish poultry exports – across the EU and worldwide – looks set to continue. Market analysts expect global poultry demand to keep rising in 2025 and beyond, buoyed by poultry’s affordability and positive health perception . Ireland’s poultry industry is gearing up accordingly: farmers are improving efficiency and expanding flocks modestly, while processors invest in capacity and innovation (from new product development to eco-friendly packaging).
Challenges will undoubtedly arise (from fluctuating feed costs to competition from large producers in Brazil or Ukraine), but Ireland has proven resilient and adaptable. Its diversified export markets (EU, UK, Africa, etc.) act as a buffer against regional ups and downs . Moreover, Ireland’s commitment to quality and sustainability aligns perfectly with the priorities of high-value markets. Importers in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia are increasingly seeking suppliers who can guarantee not just volume and price, but also food safety, animal welfare, and green credentials – precisely Ireland’s strengths.
In conclusion, the Irish poultry sector offers international buyers a compelling combination of growth and reliability. The numbers show a story of expanding export volumes and market reach, while the underlying factors reflect a product you can trust. Whether you’re sourcing fresh chicken fillets for EU supermarkets or processed poultry products for global foodservice, Irish suppliers are well-positioned to meet your needs with high-quality, sustainably-produced poultry. With continued support from trade partners and a focus on excellence, Ireland’s poultry export success is poised to keep climbing in the EU and global markets in the years ahead.
