POULTRY INDONESIA, Huntsville, Ala. — Japan’s poultry industry is entering a new chapter as cooperation between Aviagen and Nippon Chunky grows even stronger. Global poultry breeding company Aviagen has announced the acquisition of a 66% stake in Nippon Chunky, the exclusive distributor of the Ross® line in Japan, effective July 1, 2026.

This strategic move marks a significant strengthening of a long-standing partnership that has endured for nearly six decades. For almost 60 years, Nippon Chunky, a subsidiary of the Food and Agribusiness Division of Marubeni Corporation, has served as Aviagen’s key partner in supplying Ross broiler parent stock to Japan’s poultry industry.

Through the acquisition, Aviagen becomes the controlling shareholder of Nippon Chunky with a 66% ownership stake, while Marubeni Corporation will retain 34% and continue to play an active role in the company’s management. Nevertheless, Nippon Chunky will continue operating under its existing corporate identity and management team as part of the Aviagen Asia network.

Strengthening the Development of Japan’s Poultry Industry

The investment reflects a partnership built over decades on trust, mutual respect, and a shared vision to support the advancement of Japan’s poultry sector. The two companies’ primary focus includes improving farmer productivity, driving innovation, promoting sustainability, and enhancing animal welfare.

Jan Henriksen, Chief Executive Officer of Aviagen, stated that Nippon Chunky has earned an outstanding reputation through its dedication to customers, strong relationships with the local industry, and deep understanding of the Japanese market.

Similarly, Masaya Shiraishi, General Manager of the Meat Department at Marubeni Corporation, expressed confidence that closer collaboration with Aviagen will strengthen the foundation that Nippon Chunky has built over the years.

Supporting Sustainable Poultry Production

As one of the world’s leading poultry breeding companies, Aviagen’s mission is to provide affordable, nutritious, and sustainable chicken protein for consumers worldwide. The company considers animal health and welfare, sustainability, and food security as three interconnected pillars.

Aviagen continues to develop balanced breeding programs that prioritize resource efficiency, improved animal welfare, biosecurity, and responsible poultry production practices. Its portfolio includes several renowned poultry breeding brands, including Ross®, Arbor Acres®, Indian River®, and Specialty Males®, as well as slower-growing strains designed to meet diverse market needs.

With operations spanning more than 100 countries and supported by approximately 8,400 employees worldwide, Aviagen continues to expand its contribution to the development of the global poultry industry, including across Asia.

The acquisition of a majority stake in Nippon Chunky represents an important step for Aviagen in strengthening its position in Japan while ensuring the continued supply of high-quality poultry breeding stock for the country’s poultry industry. The closer partnership is expected to drive innovation and support the long-term growth of Japan’s broiler sector.

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