Global Animal Genetics Market Set to Reach $17.1 Billion by 2034
Animal genetics, the study of genes affecting animal performance, plays a critical role in determining an animal’s appearance, survival, and function. These genetic factors, passed from parents to offspring, are essential for enhancing productivity and resilience in livestock. The Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) Animal Production and Genetics Unit is at the forefront of supporting countries in managing livestock genetics to meet growing demands.
The U.S. National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) reports that over 60% of dairy cows in the U.S. are bred through artificial insemination, compared to less than 5% in beef production. This stark contrast underscores the untapped potential within the animal genetics market.
Market Dynamics and Trends
The TMR report outlines key factors driving the animal genetics market, including the growing demand for animal-derived products such as milk, meat, and eggs, particularly in urbanized regions. As consumers increasingly seek protein-rich diets, the cattle sector is rapidly adopting genetic technologies to boost production and meet this demand.
Advanced genetic methods are enabling breeders to produce livestock that are better suited to various environmental conditions, more resistant to diseases, and capable of yielding higher-quality products. The synergy between genetic innovation and evolving dietary needs is accelerating the growth of the animal genetics industry.
The advent of genomic selection marks a new era in precision animal breeding. Cutting-edge technologies like next-generation analytics and sequencing are allowing breeders to identify and modify specific genes with unparalleled accuracy. This advancement not only enhances productivity but also strengthens disease resistance in livestock.
Genomic selection is also opening new opportunities for genetic modification tailored to local environments, particularly in regions with diverse indigenous cattle breeds. These developments are creating pathways for market expansion and differentiation while supporting rural livelihoods and food security.
Regional Insights: North America Leads, Europe Follows
North America dominates the animal genetics market, holding over 40% of the global share. The region’s leadership is attributed to its robust livestock industry, significant investments in breeding programs, and advanced biotechnology and genetic research capabilities. In March 2024, HerdWhistle Technologies announced a partnership with Hendrix Genetics to develop precision farming solutions, aiming to enhance the performance of swine producers.
Europe, on the other hand, is witnessing growth driven by increasing demand for efficient and sustainable livestock production, coupled with stringent regulations on animal welfare and food safety. Consumer awareness regarding the impact of genetic technologies on product quality is also on the rise. In January 2024, the European Commission approved EUR 1 billion for two German initiatives aimed at improving animal welfare in livestock breeding.
Strategic Moves by Key Players
The competitive landscape of the animal genetics market is dynamic, with leading players launching new products and forming strategic collaborations. In October 2023, Basepaws introduced a comprehensive DNA test for dogs, focusing on health and early disease diagnosis. This innovation allows pet owners to transition from reactive to proactive care, with results easily accessible via mobile platforms.
Moreover, collaborations are becoming increasingly common as companies seek to expand their consumer base. For example, in January 2023, Zoetis partnered with VAS to enhance compatibility between Zoetis’ CLARIFIDE genetic testing and VAS’s farm management software, DairyComp, providing farmers with integrated solutions for herd management.
The animal genetics market is set for a decade of growth, driven by technological advancements, regulatory support, and increasing global demand for high-quality animal products. As the industry evolves, stakeholders are likely to see continued innovation and expansion opportunities on a global scale.
