De Heus to inaugurate new US$17M animal feed factory in India
De Heus says the investment underscores its commitment to strengthening India’s livestock sector.
INDIA – De Heus India will officially open a new animal feed factory in Rajpura, Punjab, on October 1, 2025, marking a major milestone in the company’s expansion in Asia.
The US$17 million facility is one of the largest and most technologically advanced feed plants in the country, with an installed capacity of 180,000 metric tonnes and potential expansion to 240,000 metric tonnes.
The factory features separate production lines for cattle, buffalo, poultry, and pig feed, integrating cutting-edge European technology and automation to ensure consistency and quality.
De Heus says the investment underscores its commitment to strengthening India’s livestock sector while creating economic opportunities for local communities.
Ceremony of progress and partnerships
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Marisa Gerards, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to India, Nepal & Bhutan, along with ministers, legislators, senior government officials, and De Heus’ top leadership.
Chief Minister Mann hailed the investment as a timely boost for Punjab’s economy, pointing to its role in job creation, farmer support, and agricultural innovation. Ambassador Gerards highlighted the facility as a symbol of strengthening Indo-Dutch cooperation in food and agriculture.
According to De Heus, the Rajpura factory is expected to generate more than 300 direct jobs while creating opportunities for hundreds of local suppliers and channel partners. By sourcing raw materials domestically, the facility will also stimulate growth among regional agri-businesses.
Co De Heus, Chairman of the company’s Board, said the new plant is part of a long-term commitment to Indian agriculture. “By investing in Punjab, De Heus aims to support local agriculture and contribute to the sustainable growth of India’s livestock sector,” he said.
Knowledge, sustainability, and growth
The new facility is designed not only for feed production but also as a hub for farmer engagement and knowledge sharing. Rutger Oudejans, Managing Director of De Heus India, stressed that the company’s mission extends beyond feed supply.
“With this investment, De Heus is not only providing advanced feed solutions, but also supporting independent livestock farmers by giving them access to global expertise, practical on-farm advice, and innovative services,” he explained.
“In doing so, we aim to contribute to the further professionalisation of livestock farming in India, helping farmers strengthen their position in the value chain and meet the growing demand for safe and nutritious animal protein.”
The company also emphasised its commitment to sustainability. The Rajpura factory incorporates a biomass boiler and systems for steam and water re-use, reducing environmental impact.
De Heus has rapidly grown its presence in India, evolving from a small operation into a significant international investment. The company views India as a cornerstone of its broader Asian growth strategy.
As Co De Heus put it, “India is central to our global and Asian ambitions, given its dynamic farming communities and its essential role in feeding the world’s most populous nation.”
In a related development, De Heus Uganda launched its new aquafeed plant in Uganda on 2nd September, responding to the growing demand for fish in Uganda and East Africa.
Sign up to HERE receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.
