The Chinese market for pig feed is one of the biggest in the world, fueled by China’s high need for pork, a key protein in the Chinese cuisine. In the past, pig farming in China transitioned from small-scale backyard practices to a more modern and commercial industry, especially following the economic reforms of the 1980s. This change resulted in farmers being able to enhance productivity and improve meat quality by adopting modern feeding practices. The 2018 African swine fever (ASF) outbreak severely affected China’s pig population, resulting in a significant drop in production. This caused a change in feed formulation techniques to improve disease resistance and overall pig health. The Chinese pig feed market was made more complex by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to disruptions in the supply chain and fluctuations in feed ingredient prices. Lockdowns and transportation restrictions impacted the supply of essential ingredients like corn and soybean meal, causing feed costs to rise. In spite of these difficulties, the pandemic sped up innovation in the sector, focusing more on sustainability and incorporating alternative feed ingredients. Producers are now looking into alternatives such as insect meal and fermentation products to expand their feed sources and decrease dependence on imported materials. Moreover, progress in precision feeding technologies has become popular, enabling farmers to customize nutrition according to the specific requirements of pigs at various growth phases. These advancements are designed to enhance feed efficiency and overall pig health, preparing the Chinese pig feed industry for a resurgence and expansion after the pandemic, while also strengthening its global competitiveness.
According to the research report "China Pig feed Market Overview, 2029," published by Bonafide Research, the China Pig feed market is anticipated to grow at more than 3.44% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. WH Group, China National Agricultural Development Group (CNADC), and Fujian Sunner Development Co., Ltd. are the main players in the Chinese pig market, exerting considerable control over pork production and distribution in the country. WH Group, the biggest pork producer globally, possesses Smithfield Foods in the US and carries out significant activities in China, concentrating on unified production and supply chain oversight. This integration enables WH Group to uphold high-quality standards and quickly adapt to market demands. CNADC, a significant participant, engages in pig farming and processing, utilizing its size to enhance production and maintain a steady supply in different areas of China. Partnerships between producers, agricultural cooperatives, and research institutions are essential for the progress of the Chinese pig market. Collaborating with entities like the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences supports advancements in research and development for swine genetics, nutrition, and disease management, ultimately improving productivity and biosecurity in pig farming. When it comes to trade, China plays a significant role in the worldwide pork industry, acting as a major importer and exporter. The nation brings in large amounts of pork from the EU, US, and Brazil to satisfy domestic consumption needs, especially following the African swine fever outbreak that significantly reduced local pig populations. On the other hand, certain Chinese manufacturers are growing their exports to nations in Southeast Asia and further, taking advantage of the increasing worldwide need for pork items. Suppliers like Cargill and ADM are crucial in supplying important feed ingredients like corn and soybean meals that are essential for pig nutrition. China’s role in the global pork industry is emphasized by these dynamics, as it manages both domestic requirements and opportunities for international trade.
Pelleted feed is the most popular form in the Chinese pig feed market, favored for its benefits in improving feed efficiency and animal health over crumbles, mash, and other forms. Pelleted feed is compacted into consistent, heavy particles to reduce dust and waste, leading to increased palatability for pigs. Ensuring consistency in nutrient profiles for pigs promotes good digestion and absorption, which is key for optimal growth rates and feed conversion ratios. The process of pelleting also aids in decreasing the amount of pathogens, leading to better herd health and less spread of diseases, which is especially crucial amidst current issues such as African swine fever. The Chinese pig feed market is ruled by key domestic companies such as Wen’s Foodstuffs Group, New Hope Group, and China Animal Husbandry Group. Wen’s Foodstuffs Group is among the biggest agribusinesses in China, specializing in integrated livestock production, processing, and feed manufacturing. The company gives high importance to using pelleted feed to improve the health and growth of its pigs. New Hope Group, a prominent company in the agricultural industry, prioritizes technological progress in creating feed and has devoted substantial resources to developing pelleted feed options tailored to the unique nutritional requirements of pigs at different stages of life. The China Animal Husbandry Group is also vital, providing various pelleted feed options that meet strict safety and quality guidelines. Partnerships with research institutions and feed ingredient suppliers enhance these companies’ capacity to innovate and enhance feed formulations. These companies improve the productivity and efficiency of their operations by emphasizing pelleted feed, ultimately supporting the growth and sustainability of the Chinese pig industry and strengthening its global market presence.
In the Chinese pig feed industry, sow feed is the dominant category, exceeding starter and grower feeds because of its vital role in reproductive performance and herd productivity. Ensuring sows receive proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining ideal body condition throughout pregnancy and nursing, which directly affects the health and survival of piglets. Sow feed of high quality consists of higher amounts of energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals to meet the nutritional needs of breeding sows, which results in enhanced fertility, bigger litters, and healthier piglets. The emphasis on sow nutrition is crucial for pig farmers looking to improve output and income, particularly with challenges like African swine fever impacting herd size and breeding efficiency. The top companies In the Chinese pig feed market are Wen’s Foodstuffs Group, New Hope Group, and China Animal Husbandry Group. Wen’s Foodstuffs Group focuses on producing top-quality sow feed in conjunction with its comprehensive livestock activities, dedicating resources to R&D for crafting tailored mixtures that cater to the specific requirements of breeding sows. One of China’s biggest agribusinesses, New Hope Group, focuses on sow feed, providing various nutritionally balanced products to enhance reproductive health and support the full lifecycle of pigs. China Animal Husbandry Group makes a major contribution to this field by offering advanced feeding solutions that meet strict safety and quality requirements. Working with agricultural research institutions and veterinary professionals allows these companies to remain leaders in the field of nutrition science, improving the efficiency of their sow feed. By concentrating on the nutritional needs of sows, these businesses enhance breeding results and enhance the overall efficiency and sustainability of the Chinese pig sector, reinforcing its position in the global market.
Considered in this report
• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029
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