Challenges of the international market for animal genetics

This article analyses challenges in the international market for animal genetics, which constitutes a very important economic segment for the German breeding sector. Regional production statistics are discussed for cattle milk, beef, pork, mutton and sheep/goat milk. Germany leads in exports of live breeding cattle and of bull semen within EU-25 and to Non-EU countries. Breeding pig exports are mainly within the EU-25 and other European countries. Germany has a neglectable role as exporter but is the biggest importer of pig breeding stock. Sheep and goats are mainly traded among Mediteranean countries, with small numbers of goats being exported to developing countries Germany has a minor role in exporting sheep and goats. Export of live breeding cattle to Mediteranean and Middle east countries will grow in importance for EU-countries and for specialised dairy breeds. Exports to Eastern Europe will also include dual purpose cattle breeds. The global trade of cattle semen involves all major competitors and demands efficient breeding programmes and marketing structures. The international market for pig breeding stock will be dominated by internationally operating breeding companies. Export of animal genetics demands the understanding of local conditions relevant for production and breeding goals to avoid G x E-Interactions, to forecast necessary technical changes and to comply with codes of ethics relevant to breeders and producers. Supporting institutional partnerships and services to improve the breeding and production sector seem to be essential for maintaining markets. This additional challenge does require respective adjustments in the organisational structure of breeding programmes and market institutions to secure optimization of breeding programmes, export competency, market services and advantages in relation to the EU breeding legislature.

Vollversion deutsch