Ratite production as an agricultural enterprise

Area of Science:

• Agricultural economics
• Livestock industry analysis
• Veterinary business management

Background:

• The ratite (ostrich and emu) industry is in the market introduction phase, characterized by limited production data and uncertain market growth.
• Current ratite operations often yield minimal profits or losses, with prices for slaughter and breeder birds remaining stagnant or potentially decreasing due to supply outpacing demand.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the current market status and future prospects of the ostrich and emu industries.
• To identify challenges and opportunities for producers and veterinarians within the ratite sector.
• To assess the potential for industry growth and the evolution of vertical coordination.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of market introduction stage characteristics for ratite production.
• Evaluation of current pricing for ostrich breeders and slaughter birds.
• Assessment of factors influencing profitability and market growth for ostrich and emu products.
• Identification of veterinary care needs and opportunities for service provision.

Main Results:

• The ostrich industry shows gradual progress, aided by pre-existing demand for its products.
• The emu industry's future is uncertain, requiring substantial promotion of meat and clarification of oil value.
• Ratite producers face negligible profit margins, necessitating increased in-farm treatments by producers and creating opportunities for veterinary assistance.

Conclusions:

• The ratite industry requires significant market development and promotion, particularly for emu meat and oil, to achieve profitability.
• Veterinarians play a crucial role in supporting ratite producers through farm-level assistance and potentially preventative medicine in integrated systems.
• Vertical coordination in the ratite industry is expected to evolve slowly, with limited immediate opportunities for economies of scale in slaughter.