The European Union has adopted new welfare standards for poultry farms, which will be gradually implemented by 2027. These include reducing stocking density in housing facilities, improving lighting and ventilation conditions, and ensuring mandatory access to movement areas for birds raised in commercial farms.

For Romania, where the poultry sector produces over 1.4 million tons of poultry meat and 6.4 billion eggs annually, according to Eurostat and INS, implementing the new rules will require significant investments. Estimates from industry associations show that an average poultry farm will need to allocate between €100,000 and €250,000 for modernization.

The additional costs may reduce competitiveness in the short term, but in the long run these measures can bring economic benefits. Products from systems compliant with welfare standards are increasingly sought after by consumers and can achieve prices 15–20% higher on the market.

Farms that manage to implement these standards quickly, by accessing European funds and diversifying distribution channels, will be better positioned in regional competition. Without investments, many holdings risk being pushed out of the market once the regulations are enforced.

(Photo: Freepik)