Evaluating the Economic Impacts of a Cage-Free Animal Welfare Policy in Southeast Asian and Indian Egg Production: A Systematic Review.

This article focuses on evaluating the economic impacts of transitioning to cage-free egg production in Southeast Asia and India. Drawing on a systematic review of commercial-scale studies, it finds that cage-free systems—such as aviaries and barns—generally incur higher production costs (11%–17% increase) that are largely offset by higher revenues (13%–15% increase), suggesting economic viability for producers responding to growing demand driven by government and retailer policies. Poultry feed is identified as the dominant cost factor (60%–95% of total costs), with feed price fluctuations playing a more significant role in producer profitability than the choice of housing system. The article highlights the importance of technical support for farmers during the transition and the need for policies addressing feed price stability to promote sustainable and welfare-conscious egg production in the region.