Current problems and challenges of Hungarian goose sector in domestic and international level

Abstract

In global goose meat production China is a key player. However, Hungary plays a major role in the international market, as it is one of the biggest producers and exporters. Hungary and Poland are considered determinant goose meat producers in Europe. In recent years Poland has been able to increase its production significantly, therefore it is considered to become an increasingly important competitor. The objective of this study is to present the domestic and international situation of goose sector especially its typical problems. The domestic waterfowl sector typically produces for export and it is a significant revenue source in foreign currency for foreign trade in the national economy. Besides, goose breeding has a centuries-old tradition in Hungary and it is of great importance for the Hungarian poultry sector. Hungary has a stable, long-term position in worldwide goose meat production. However, the sector must face a number of challenges both in domestic and international markets depending on the changes of market and economic conditions. Moreover, a further difficulty is that goose is a seasonal product in target markets; therefore, it is price sensitive and can be sold in small volumes. Our research findings suggest that the main problem of domestic geese sector is competitiveness. In relation to the problem, the following areas can be identified: the lack of skilled labour, hectically changing profitability, decrease in the number of producers, the lack of sectoral marketing, international exposure, strengthening competition. Some of these problems are non-sectoral, external factor, the sector can only avoid them, but it cannot solve. The sector would have interest in the development, maintenance and enhancement of competitiveness, so the sector operators have to find solution the problems at sectoral level, which on the sector can have impact therefore the future tasks of sector can be determined with translating the problems into goals.