Introduction

2014 was a year where various sectors of the economy experienced different levels of profitability. Among them, the agriculture industry, specifically, the animal husbandry sector, proved to be one of the most profitable. This article will delve deeper into the reasons why and what made some sub-sectors more profitable than others.

The Poultry Industry

The poultry industry held a high rank in the animal husbandry sub-sectors. It was considered to be the most profitable and it continues to attract new investments. This can be attributed to its low input costs and relatively high returns. Many poultry farmers focus on raising broiler chicken breeds for meat production as well as egg-laying chicken breeds for egg production.

The Fish and Aquaculture Industry

The fish and aquaculture industry has also been contributing significantly to the animal husbandry sector’s profitability. This industry involves breeding fish and farming various types of aquatic plants. It has been expanding rapidly due to the high demand for fish in markets. Additionally, fish farming requires less space compared to poultry farming, making it possible to set up fish farms even in urban areas.

The Swine Industry

Closely following the poultry and fish industries, the swine industry has also played a crucial role in the animal husbandry sector. China, for example, is the leading producer of pork where the majority of the pork products are being sourced from. The swine industry’s profitability can be attributed to the fact that pork is one of the staple foods in many countries. The industry has a readily available market, and it also requires less maintenance compared to other animal husbandry sub-sectors.

The Competitive Advantage of Animal Husbandry Sub-sectors

There are several competitive advantages of animal husbandry sub-sectors compared to other agricultural industries. Firstly, animal husbandry has higher returns on investment compared to other farming sectors. According to studies, it has been estimated that the ROI in the animal husbandry sector is approximately 30%, compared to 20% or less in other agricultural sectors.

Secondly, animal husbandry sub-sectors require less maintenance than other agricultural sectors. For example, poultry farming requires less space, less feed, and less water than other farming sub-sectors. This makes it more practical and profitable when it comes to setting up farms in urban areas where land and water resources are scarce.

Lastly, animal husbandry sub-sectors are considered relatively more stable compared to other agricultural sectors. This stability can be attributed to the consistent demand for animal products (meat, milk, eggs) all over the world.

Conclusion

Animal husbandry sub-sectors have proven to be one of the most profitable sectors in agriculture. Among them, the poultry, fish, and swine industries have contributed significantly towards the sector’s profitability. However, this does not mean that other sub-sectors are not profitable. Each sub-sector has its advantages and disadvantages, and farmers must do their research and due diligence before investing in one that suits their resources and intended outcomes.