Introduction – The Chicken Sector in the Netherlands: Where Do Things Stand?
Let’s talk chicken — not just dinner, but business.
In the Netherlands, the poultry sector is navigating a wild ride in 2025. Demand is surging, regulations are tightening, and the supply chain is feeling the squeeze. In short, it’s a market in flux.
So, what’s going on?
Well, for starters, European chicken consumption climbed nearly 5% in 2024. In the Netherlands, chicken production ticked up 2.2% in Q1 2024 — sounds great, right? But wait, the same period also saw a 4.5% decline compared to Q1 2023. Why? The industry is shifting toward sustainable practices, like the Better Life 1-star scheme, which means fewer chickens but better conditions.
At the same time, exports of hatching eggs are booming — up by 25%! The Middle East and Africa are loving Dutch eggs, with countries like Iraq and Saudi Arabia snapping up 50% to 70% of the market share.
But it’s not all sunshine and drumsticks.
Avian influenza outbreaks, rising feed prices due to EU deforestation laws taking effect in 2025, and increasing competition from Eastern Europe are all putting pressure on Dutch producers. Oh, and let’s not forget climate unpredictability and its impact on feed crops.
In this fast-moving environment, platforms like Freshdi are proving essential. They help buyers stay on top of RFQ (Request for Quotation) trends, verify suppliers, and respond proactively to market shifts.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s making headlines right now.
What’s Making Headlines? A Closer Look at the Dutch Chicken Market
1. Production Is Down, But Prices Are Up
Here’s the paradox: chicken production is declining, yet prices are climbing. That’s because the industry is focused on quality over quantity. The Better Life 1-star certification prioritizes animal welfare and sustainability, which slows production but attracts conscious consumers.
2. Feed Costs: A Storm Brewing
Feed prices have seen a slight decline recently, but don’t get too comfortable. The EU’s incoming deforestation-free regulation — which takes effect in 2025 — means only certified soy and beef can be used. Translation? Higher feed costs are on the horizon.
3. Avian Influenza: Still a Threat
AI outbreaks in Poland and other parts of Europe have disrupted production and trade. The Netherlands has had its own share of outbreaks, prompting lockdowns and caging orders. This reduces supply and pushes prices even higher.
4. Exports: A Mixed Bag
While exports of chicken meat dropped 7% in early 2024, hatching egg exports grew by up to 25%. Regions like the Middle East have become key buyers, signaling an opportunity for Dutch producers to diversify their export portfolio.
5. Investments and Tech
Some producers are investing in automation and biosecurity tech to combat disease outbreaks and improve sustainability. This could be a game-changer, though mass adoption may take time.
Top 8 Verified Chicken Suppliers in Netherlands in Quarter 3 of 2025
Finding reliable suppliers in a volatile market is no small feat. That’s where Freshdi steps in, offering verified supplier data, buyer reviews, and RFQ trends.
Here are the top 8 chicken suppliers in the Netherlands for Q3 2025:
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Avalon
Known for: High-quality chicken-based pet food
Strengths: Sustainability-focused, excellent buyer reviews -
THOMSON MACHINERY BV
Known for: Chicken-based animal feed and pet products
Strengths: Large-scale capabilities, consistent supply -
R.A. TRADING
Known for: Table eggs and chicken egg distribution
Strengths: Export-focused, strong buyer network in MENA -
JP Beemsterboer Food Traders BV
Known for: Frozen Halal whole chickens
Strengths: Global reach, halal-certified, efficient logistics -
RAB WHOLESALE B.V.
Known for: Fresh chicken eggs
Strengths: Verified sourcing, quick delivery, responsive service -
W&E Holding B.V
Known for: Chicken drumsticks and parts
Strengths: Strong domestic and EU presence, reliable partner -
BOLIDO NETHERLANDS B.V.
Known for: Frozen halal chicken wings
Strengths: Export-ready packaging, halal certification -
FLEVOTRADE WORLDWIDE FOOD TRADER
Known for: Deep frozen chicken cuts
Strengths: Strong quality control, preferred supplier on Freshdi
Dynamic Ranking Note: Rankings of top suppliers may shift based on real-time performance, RFQ activity, and certifications — platforms like Freshdi regularly update their “Suppliers of the Month/Quarter” based on verified buyer feedback and industry activity.
Navigating the Chicken Market in the Netherlands: Opportunities & Caution Flags
Opportunities for Buyers
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Strong Demand in EU & Beyond: Dutch chicken remains a go-to protein in Europe. With a 5% increase in European consumption, buyers can expect stable demand.
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Hatching Egg Boom: Non-European markets like Iraq and Saudi Arabia are increasingly depending on Dutch hatching eggs. This opens avenues for exporters.
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Sustainability as a Selling Point: Products meeting Better Life 1-star standards are gaining traction among eco-conscious buyers.
Risks to Watch
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Avian Influenza Disruptions: Recent outbreaks led to full lockdowns of poultry in the Netherlands. This affects supply and logistics.
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Rising Feed Prices: Once EU deforestation regulations kick in, feed costs could spike — impacting both prices and availability.
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Increased Competition: Central & Eastern European countries, especially Poland, are ramping up production and competing on cost.
Strategic Sourcing Tips
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Diversify Suppliers: Don’t rely on one source. Use platforms like Freshdi to compare verified suppliers and RFQ activity before committing.
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Focus on Value-Added Products: With prices rising, consider sourcing higher-margin products like seasoned cuts, halal-certified portions, or IQF (Individually Quick Frozen) chicken.
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Check for Certifications: Especially when targeting EU or eco-conscious markets. Better Life, Halal, and organic standards matter more than ever.
The Bird Flu Vaccine Rollout – A Game Changer?
In March 2025, the Netherlands launched a pilot bird flu vaccination program. This move could be a major step toward reducing future AI-related disruptions.
Starting with a laying-hen farm, the program is part of a broader strategy to stabilize the market and ensure long-term resilience.
If successful, this could increase buyer confidence and stabilize production volumes going into 2026.
Read more from Reuters
Key Takeaways for Businesses Sourcing Chicken in 2025
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Stay Informed: This market moves fast. From trade bans to outbreaks, you need current intelligence, not last month’s data.
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Balance Risk with Opportunity: Yes, there are risks — but with smart sourcing and supplier vetting, the rewards are still substantial.
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Use Freshdi for Real-Time Insights: Platforms like Freshdi give you tools to track verified suppliers, RFQ surges, and market signals from regions like the Netherlands.
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Think Long-Term: Sustainability is not a trend — it’s the future. Partner with suppliers who are already aligned with better welfare, environmental, and certification standards.
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Prepare for Regulatory Changes: The EU’s deforestation-free rule is just the beginning. Compliance isn’t optional — it’s strategic.
Buyer’s Checklist – Navigating the Dutch Chicken Market in Q3 2025
✅ Monitor avian flu updates and vaccination rollout
✅ Verify supplier certifications (Better Life, Halal, etc.)
✅ Compare suppliers on Freshdi before committing
✅ Diversify product types: fresh, frozen, wings, drumsticks, etc.
✅ Track feed price forecasts and adjust procurement budgets
✅ Watch for dynamic supplier rankings on Freshdi’s “Suppliers of the Month”
✅ Align with suppliers investing in sustainability
What’s Ahead for the Dutch Chicken Industry?
2025 is shaping up to be a year of transition. Between sustainability mandates, AI threats, and new trade routes, the Dutch poultry sector is adapting fast.
If the bird flu vaccination program succeeds, production could stabilize. Meanwhile, strong demand and strategic exports (especially hatching eggs) will likely keep the Netherlands a key player in the global chicken game.
By keeping your ear to the ground — and your dashboard tuned to Freshdi — buyers can not only survive but thrive in this dynamic market.
FAQs
1. Why is chicken production down in the Netherlands despite high demand?
Because producers are shifting to more sustainable practices like the Better Life 1-star certification, which reduces volume but improves quality and welfare standards.
2. How can I find verified Dutch chicken suppliers?
Use platforms like Freshdi that offer verified profiles, buyer reviews, and real-time RFQ trends.
3. What’s the impact of the EU’s deforestation regulation on chicken prices?
It’s expected to raise feed costs, which will likely increase overall chicken production costs in 2025 and beyond.
4. Are bird flu outbreaks still a major threat in the Netherlands?
Yes, though the country launched a pilot vaccination program in March 2025 to mitigate future risks.
5. Which chicken products are in high demand for export?
Hatching eggs, frozen halal chicken parts, and certified sustainable chicken cuts are leading the export surge.
References
- vakbladvoedingsindustrie.nl – Chicken Remains in High Demand
- vakbladvoedingsindustrie.nl – Broiler Sector Outlook
- demolenaar.nl – Feed Prices and Poultry Outlook
- poultryworld.net – Global Poultry Market Trends
- nltimes.nl – Bird Flu Outbreak in Putten
- reuters.com – Bird Flu Vaccination Program Launch
