How the crisis in the Middle East could impact the local and global poultry industry

The poultry sector in the Middle East, including Iran, Afghanistan, and Turkey, plays an increasingly critical role in global poultry industry growth. Despite representing only 8% of global market size and almost 15% of global trade, the region accounts for nearly 10% of global production growth, supported by population growth, rising chicken consumption, and food security programs. The outbreak of the Iran war has disrupted supply chains, trade flows, and input availability, pressuring import markets, especially highly dependent ones. Though local production has become more resilient due to major investments in the Persian Gulf, vulnerable countries such as Iran, Kuwait, Oman, Iraq, Bahrain, and the UAE still face heightened risks. Global exporters, particularly Brazil, will experience significant trade challenges, while local producers in the Middle East may temporarily benefit from higher prices if production continues. Overall, the duration and escalation of the war will determine the scale of disruption for regional industries and international suppliers.