China Meat Market to Grow with a CAGR of 20.72% through 2030F

The China meat market is experiencing significant growth due to rising consumer demand, urbanization, higher incomes, changing dietary preferences, and increased focus on protein consumption and modern retail trends.

According to TechSci Research report, “China Meat Market – By Region, Competition Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F”, the China Meat Market was valued at USD 83.68 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 258.17 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 20.72% during the forecast period. The China meat market is one of the largest and most dynamic in the world. As the country continues to urbanize and experience rapid economic growth, the demand for animal-based protein is increasing at an unprecedented rate. In recent years, China has evolved into both a major producer and consumer of meat, with pork, beef, and poultry being the primary categories of consumption. Additionally, changes in consumer preferences, dietary habits, and economic conditions are transforming the structure of the meat industry. Despite challenges related to food safety, supply chain disruptions, and fluctuating demand, the Chinese meat market continues to expand, driven by factors such as rising income levels, changing lifestyles, and increased demand for convenience.

Pork remains the most consumed meat in China, accounting for a large share of both production and consumption. Historically, pork has been a staple in the Chinese diet, and despite fluctuations in the domestic production due to diseases like African swine fever (ASF), pork consumption is expected to continue its dominance. In fact, pork is not only a cultural preference but also an integral part of Chinese culinary traditions. However, the ASF outbreak in recent years led to a decline in the national hog population, which affected the supply and caused meat price hikes. This incident prompted the government to implement measures to stabilize the supply chain and encourage the importation of pork from other countries. As a result, China has increasingly turned to international markets, especially in countries like the United States, Brazil, and Europe, to meet its pork demand. Despite these challenges, the Chinese government has focused on restoring the domestic pork industry and ensuring stable prices through improved disease control and technological innovations in meat production.

Poultry is another key driver in China's meat consumption, as it is seen as an affordable and healthy alternative to pork and beef. Chicken is the second most popular meat in China, and its consumption has steadily increased over the past few decades. The poultry industry has benefited from technological advancements in farming practices, enabling higher efficiency and lower costs of production. Moreover, the growing preference for processed chicken products, such as ready-to-eat meals and frozen products, is further boosting the demand for poultry. Rising urbanization and a shift toward more convenient meal options have been important factors contributing to the growth of the poultry market in China. As a result, poultry is expected to remain a major player in the meat sector, with increasing production levels and steady demand from both domestic and export markets.

In recent years, there has been a growing trend toward healthier eating habits, with more consumers in China opting for leaner meats and seeking out alternatives to traditional meat products. This shift in consumer preference is contributing to the growth of alternative proteins, such as plant-based and lab-grown meats, as well as fish and seafood. While meat consumption remains strong, there is a notable increase in demand for products that cater to health-conscious consumers. In response to this trend, companies are introducing healthier meat options, such as lower-fat cuts of pork, lean beef, and chicken products. The growth of plant-based meat alternatives, particularly from companies like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods, has also attracted attention in the Chinese market, with consumers becoming more aware of sustainability and animal welfare issues. These shifts in dietary habits and the emergence of alternative proteins are gradually reshaping the meat market in China, although meat consumption is still expected to remain the dominant protein source for the foreseeable future. 

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The China Meat Market is segmented into product type, type, distribution channel and region.

Processed meat is the fastest-growing segment in the China meat market due to increasing consumer demand for convenience, longer shelf life, and innovative product offerings. With urbanization on the rise and more consumers leading busy lifestyles, there has been a significant shift toward ready-to-eat and easy-to-prepare meat products. Processed meats such as sausages, bacon, deli meats, and canned meats are gaining popularity for their convenience, affordability, and variety, making them ideal for busy urban families and individuals. Furthermore, the growing middle class in China is willing to pay a premium for higher-quality processed meats, often seeking products with added value, such as organic or low-fat options. The expansion of modern retail channels, including supermarkets and online platforms, has also facilitated easier access to processed meats.

The South-Central region of China, which includes provinces like Guangdong, Hunan, Hubei, and Henan, is the fastest growing in the country’s meat market. This growth is driven by rising urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and shifting consumer preferences toward more varied diets, including higher meat consumption. Major cities like Guangzhou and Wuhan see significant demand for pork, poultry, and beef, particularly in processed forms such as sausages and ready-to-eat meals. The region also benefits from modern retail infrastructure, including supermarkets and e-commerce platforms, making meat more accessible. Additionally, the development of local meat production, improved supply chains, and government support have facilitated market expansion. With its growing population and economic development, South-Central China is positioned as a key driver in the nation’s meat market growth.

Major companies operating in China Meat Market are:

• China Yurun Food Group Ltd.
• Cherkizovo Group
• Shanghai Maling Food Co., Ltd.
• WH Group Limited
• Shandong Longda Meishi Co., Ltd.
• Zhongjing Food Co., Ltd.
• Zhejiang Huatong Meat Products Co., Ltd. 
• Springsnow Food Group Co., Ltd.
• Shandong Huifa Foodstuff Co., Ltd.
• Tyson Foods, Inc.

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“The China Meat Market is experiencing robust growth, driven by rising urbanization, higher disposable incomes, and changing dietary habits. As more Chinese consumers adopt meat-based diets, demand for pork, beef, and poultry has surged, with processed and ready-to-eat meat products gaining popularity due to their convenience. The market's expansion is supported by modern retail infrastructure, including supermarkets and e-commerce platforms, making meat products more accessible to urban populations. Additionally, the government’s focus on food security, technological advancements in meat production, and improvements in cold chain logistics have further fueled market growth. While pork remains the dominant meat, rising beef and poultry consumption is contributing to diversification within the market. With increasing demand for premium and diverse meat products, China’s meat market is set for continued growth, solidifying its position as the world’s largest meat consumer and importer.” said Mr. Karan Chechi, Research Director of TechSci Research, a research-based management consulting firm.

“China Meat Market By Product Type (Chicken, Beef, Mutton, Pork and Others), By Type (Raw and Processed), By Distribution Channel (Departmental Stores, Specialty Stores, Hypermarket/ Supermarket, Online, Others), By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F”, has evaluated the future growth potential of China Meat Market and provides statistics & information on market size, structure and future market growth. The report intends to provide cutting-edge market intelligence and help decision makers take sound investment decisions. Besides, the report also identifies and analyzes the emerging trends along with essential drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the China Meat Market.

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