As soybean meal prices climb amid supply constraints, the livestock feed industry cautions that rising input costs may undermine productivity and profitability across the sector

The Compound Livestock Feed Manufacturers Association (CLFMA) has raised concerns over a tightening supply of soybean meal, warning that the shortage of the key protein ingredient is increasing feed production costs and creating significant challenges for India’s poultry, aquaculture, and livestock industries.

According to the industry body, soybean meal availability has come under pressure in recent weeks, leading to higher prices and increasing uncertainty for feed manufacturers. As one of the most important protein sources used in compound animal feed, soybean meal plays a critical role in supporting the productivity and health of poultry, dairy cattle, fish, and other livestock.

CLFMA noted that feed accounts for a substantial share of production expenses across animal husbandry sectors, making fluctuations in the availability and pricing of feed ingredients a major concern for producers. The association cautioned that continued supply constraints could erode margins across the value chain and potentially impact the competitiveness of livestock and aquaculture enterprises.

“The shortage of soybean meal is emerging as a serious challenge for the feed industry,” the association said, emphasizing that sustained price increases could place additional financial pressure on feed manufacturers and livestock producers already grappling with volatile input costs.

Industry stakeholders have expressed concern that escalating feed prices may eventually affect farm-level economics, particularly for poultry and aquaculture operators, where feed represents the largest component of production costs. Higher feed expenses could also influence profitability and investment decisions within the sector if the supply situation persists.

CLFMA urged policymakers and relevant authorities to closely monitor the situation and take appropriate measures to ensure adequate availability of critical feed ingredients. The association stressed that maintaining a stable supply of soybean meal is essential not only for the feed industry but also for safeguarding the growth and sustainability of India’s livestock, poultry, and fisheries sectors.

The warning comes at a time when the livestock industry is increasingly focused on managing input-cost volatility while meeting rising domestic demand for animal protein. Industry experts note that ensuring a reliable supply of feed ingredients will remain crucial for supporting productivity, food security, and the long-term resilience of India’s animal agriculture sector.