Hendrix Genetics Strengthens Global Leadership with Strategic Expansion in China
Hendrix Genetics, a valued member of the Dutch Poultry Centre, continues to strengthen its position as a global leader in animal breeding. Guided by a clear ambition to be among the top one or two players in every species it serves, the company is accelerating growth through innovation, strategic partnerships, and targeted investments — including a major expansion in China.
A clear global ambition
Nearly half of the world’s consumption eggs originate from hens bred within the Hendrix Genetics portfolio. The company also plays a significant role in other protein chains, supplying genetics behind around 15% of global pork production and 25% of trout production. According to CEO Richard Maatman, this global footprint comes with responsibility.
“We have real impact on the world. That means responsibility, but also the opportunity to add value through innovation, long-term partnerships, and sustainable solutions,” Maatman explains.
Hendrix Genetics remains firmly rooted in the Netherlands, benefiting from its location in what is often described as the Silicon Valley of agribusiness, while operating worldwide through a strong international network.
Growth through focus and acquisition
The recent integration of Danish Genetics further underlines Hendrix Genetics’ growth strategy. The merger strengthens the company’s swine genetics activities and enables faster innovation by combining complementary breeding philosophies, expertise, and technologies.
Beyond swine, Hendrix Genetics continues to explore growth opportunities in layers and slower-growing broilers, both in Europe and Asia, aligning genetic progress with evolving market and sustainability demands.
Strategic expansion in China
A key milestone in Hendrix Genetics’ international strategy is the launch of the Hendrix Huanshan Nucleus Farm in Yuexi, South-East China. This state-of-the-art swine nucleus farm was established in partnership with Huanshan Group, a major agricultural and livestock enterprise in China.
The facility is designed to become a benchmark for the Chinese swine industry, integrating advanced biosecurity, environmental management, animal welfare standards, and precision data systems. The farm has already received its first group of high-health sows, laying the foundation for strong local genetic progress.
Ji Chen, Managing Director of Hendrix Genetics China, highlights the importance of local value creation:
“By combining global genetic expertise with an operational model designed for China’s realities, we are supporting Chinese producers with sustainable, future-proof solutions.”
Innovation, sustainability, and long-term partnership
The inauguration of the nucleus farm showcased how theory and practice come together through innovative ventilation systems, precision management, standardized procedures, and full traceability. These solutions reflect Hendrix Genetics’ broader commitment to efficient, healthy, and environmentally responsible animal production.
The China expansion marks a pivotal step in the long-term collaboration between Hendrix Genetics and Huanshan Group, reinforcing shared ambitions for a resilient and sustainable livestock sector.
Dutch expertise with global impact
For the Dutch Poultry Centre, Hendrix Genetics’ continued growth illustrates the strength of Dutch animal breeding expertise on a global scale. By combining science-driven innovation, international partnerships, and a strong sustainability focus, Hendrix Genetics is shaping the future of animal protein production worldwide.
