Downstream investments increases power of genetics companies

摘要

An increasing number of commercial hatcheries follow the downstream investments of some leading layer and broiler breeding companies with mistrust. They fear for their future and the power these genetics companies may(mis-)use over the production anddistribution of commercial layers or broilers. The dramatic reduction in the number of poultry genetics companies around the world witnessed over the past 20 years created a situation in which a few companies control the majority of the world meat and egg breeder market. In the layer business we basically recognise two major genetics companies offering a limited number of products under different trade names. This worries many people. Besides a reduction in genetic potential, genetic gene pools and genetic variability there is a possible loss in creativity in how to respond to challenges of future markets. In addition the growing power of these few remaining companies may lead to monopolistic behaviour in some markets, which often results in a loss ofindependency of existing hatcheries and in significantly higher prices.