Mexico chicken output forecast to rise 2% in 2026
Lower feed costs, biosecurity gains drive growth
5 May 2026
1 minute read
By: Chicken meat production in Mexico is forecast to increase 2% to 4.2 million metric tons in 2026, according to the most recent poultry market report from the USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service.
Private investments in biosecurity and animal health protocols, particularly in 2025, significantly reduced hatchling mortality rates. This efficiency is expected to carry into 2026, allowing more birds to reach market weight.
Production is concentrated in a few key poultry hubs — Jalisco, Puebla, and Veracruz — which possess the infrastructure, feed mill access, and processing plants.
The state of Veracruz has solidified its position as Mexico's primary broiler hub, while Jalisco remains the leader in the overall poultry flock due to its large layer population.
In 2026, this regional specialisation is expected to be supported by favourable global grain prices, which are boosting the profitability of Mexican integrators.
Major players like Pilgrim's Mexico and Bachoco are actively commissioning new hatcheries and feed mills in regions like Yucatán and Veracruz to localise supply chains and meet regional demand.
Lower global prices for yellow corn and soybeans have boosted profitability, encouraging producers to optimise feed formulations and scale up operations.
