Key Insights
The China feed additive market, valued at approximately $XX million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.40% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the increasing demand for animal protein, driven by China's growing population and rising disposable incomes, necessitates higher feed production. Secondly, a heightened focus on animal health and productivity is driving adoption of feed additives to enhance feed efficiency, improve animal health, and reduce reliance on antibiotics. This trend is particularly pronounced in aquaculture and swine segments, which are major contributors to the market's overall size. Furthermore, advancements in additive technology, leading to more effective and specialized products tailored to specific animal needs, are also contributing to market growth. Government initiatives promoting sustainable and efficient animal farming practices further support market expansion.
However, challenges remain. The market faces constraints such as fluctuating raw material prices, stringent regulatory approvals for new additives, and concerns regarding the potential environmental impact of certain additives. Competition among established players like Prinova Group LLC, Solvay S.A., and DSM Nutritional Products AG, along with the emergence of new entrants, also adds to the market's dynamic complexity. Despite these restraints, the positive outlook for animal protein consumption and the ongoing innovation within the feed additive sector suggest a continued upward trajectory for the China feed additive market throughout the forecast period (2025-2033). The segmentation within the market, encompassing various animal types (aquaculture, ruminants, swine, etc.) and additive types (acidifiers, etc.), presents opportunities for targeted marketing and product development.
China Feed Additive Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the China feed additive market, offering invaluable insights for industry professionals, investors, and strategic decision-makers. With a focus on market dynamics, key players, and future trends, this report is essential for navigating the complexities of this rapidly evolving sector. The study period covers 2019-2033, with a base year of 2025 and a forecast period of 2025-2033. The historical period analyzed is 2019-2024. The market size is valued at XX Million in 2025 and is projected to reach XX Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of XX%.

China Feed Additive Market Market Structure & Innovation Trends
The China feed additive market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with key players like Prinova Group LLC, Solvay S.A., SHV (Nutreco NV), DSM Nutritional Products AG, Kerry Group Plc, Ajinomoto Co Inc, Archer Daniel Midland Co, BASF SE, Alltech Inc, Cargill Inc, and Adisseo holding significant market shares. While precise market share data for each company is unavailable publicly, Adisseo, Cargill, and DSM are estimated to hold leading positions. Innovation is driven by the increasing demand for efficient and sustainable animal feed solutions, stringent regulatory frameworks focusing on food safety and environmental impact, and the growing adoption of advanced technologies in feed production.
- Market Concentration: Moderately concentrated, with a few dominant players.
- Innovation Drivers: Demand for efficient and sustainable feed, stringent regulations, technological advancements.
- Regulatory Framework: Stringent regulations impacting product development and market access.
- Product Substitutes: Limited direct substitutes, primarily competition from alternative feed formulations.
- M&A Activity: Significant M&A activity in recent years, exemplified by Adisseo's acquisition of Nor-Feed (December 2022), reflecting industry consolidation and expansion strategies. The total value of M&A deals in the period 2019-2024 is estimated to be around XX Million.
- End-User Demographics: The market is driven by a diverse range of end-users, including large-scale commercial farms and smaller independent producers, catering to varying needs and scales of operation.

China Feed Additive Market Market Dynamics & Trends
The China feed additive market is characterized by robust growth driven by several factors. The increasing demand for animal protein due to a rising population and growing consumption of meat and seafood fuels significant demand. Technological advancements leading to more efficient and sustainable feed additives further enhance market growth. Consumer preferences are shifting towards healthier and safer animal products, driving demand for natural and organic additives. Competitive dynamics are intense, with major players investing heavily in research and development, capacity expansion, and strategic partnerships to gain a competitive edge. The market exhibits a strong growth trajectory, with notable penetration of liquid methionine, as evidenced by Adisseo's new plant in Nanjing.

Dominant Regions & Segments in China Feed Additive Market
The swine segment currently dominates the China feed additive market, fueled by the country's significant pork production. However, the aquaculture segment is experiencing rapid growth due to increasing seafood consumption and government support for aquaculture development. Geographically, the market is spread across various regions of China, with significant concentrations in key agricultural and livestock production areas.
- Key Drivers for Swine Segment: High pork consumption, intensive farming practices, government support for swine industry.
- Key Drivers for Aquaculture Segment: Increasing seafood demand, government initiatives promoting sustainable aquaculture.
- Dominance Analysis: The swine segment maintains its dominant position due to its scale and established market infrastructure. However, the aquaculture segment shows significant growth potential. Economic policies favoring agricultural development and investments in modern farming techniques play a significant role in shaping regional dominance.
China Feed Additive Market Product Innovations
Recent product innovations focus on developing more effective, sustainable, and cost-efficient feed additives. These innovations involve using plant-based phytogenic additives (as evidenced by the Delacon and Cargill partnership), improving the bioavailability of essential nutrients, and developing additives with improved environmental profiles. Technological advancements such as precision fermentation and nanotechnology are also shaping new product developments. These innovations target specific animal needs and market segments to enhance animal health, productivity, and product quality.
Report Scope & Segmentation Analysis
The report provides a detailed segmentation analysis of the China feed additive market based on animal type (Aquaculture, Swine, Other Ruminants, Poultry, Other Animals) and additive type (Acidifiers, Enzymes, Vitamins, Minerals, Antibiotics, Others). Each segment's growth trajectory, market size, and competitive landscape are extensively analyzed. Growth projections vary across segments, with the swine and aquaculture segments exhibiting faster growth compared to others. Competitive dynamics are characterized by both intense competition among established players and the emergence of new entrants with innovative offerings.
- Aquaculture: This segment is showing a high growth trajectory due to increased seafood demand.
- Swine: The largest segment due to China's substantial pork production and consumption.
- Other Ruminants: A moderately sized segment with steady growth.
- Acidifiers: This additive type maintains strong demand owing to its role in improving feed efficiency.
Key Drivers of China Feed Additive Market Growth
The China feed additive market's growth is fueled by several factors. Rising per capita income and changing dietary habits are driving increased demand for animal protein. Government initiatives promoting efficient and sustainable animal farming practices are also playing a role. Technological advancements resulting in better feed additives contribute significantly to this growth. The rising adoption of liquid methionine is an example of this. Finally, supportive regulatory measures are facilitating growth in this sector.
Challenges in the China Feed Additive Market Sector
The China feed additive market faces several challenges including stringent regulatory requirements, which can increase compliance costs and hinder market entry. Supply chain disruptions and fluctuations in raw material prices pose operational challenges. Intense competition from both domestic and international players creates pricing pressures. Furthermore, concerns about the environmental impact of certain feed additives are creating constraints on market growth.
Emerging Opportunities in China Feed Additive Market
Emerging opportunities exist in developing sustainable and environmentally friendly feed additives, meeting the increasing demand for natural and organic products. There's potential for growth in specialized feed additives tailored to specific animal needs and production systems. The increasing adoption of precision feeding technologies also opens new avenues for growth. The market expansion towards higher-value products with enhanced efficacy and safety profile presents a promising opportunity.
Leading Players in the China Feed Additive Market Market
- Prinova Group LLC
- Solvay S.A.
- SHV (Nutreco NV)
- DSM Nutritional Products AG
- Kerry Group Plc
- Ajinomoto Co Inc
- Archer Daniel Midland Co
- BASF SE
- Alltech Inc
- Cargill Inc
- Adisseo
Key Developments in China Feed Additive Market Industry
- December 2022: Adisseo group acquired Nor-Feed and its subsidiaries to expand its botanical additive portfolio.
- September 2022: Adisseo commenced production at its new 180,000-ton liquid methionine plant in Nanjing, significantly boosting its global production capacity.
- June 2022: Delacon and Cargill collaborated to establish a global plant-based phytogenic feed additives business, leveraging their combined expertise and market reach.
Future Outlook for China Feed Additive Market Market
The China feed additive market is poised for continued growth, driven by the factors discussed above. Strategic investments in research and development, expansion into new market segments, and strategic alliances will shape the future landscape. The increasing focus on sustainable and environmentally friendly practices will further accelerate market growth. The market anticipates growth driven by advancements in animal nutrition and rising consumer awareness of animal health and welfare.
China Feed Additive Market Segmentation
-
1. Additive
-
1.1. Acidifiers
-
1.1.1. By Sub Additive
- 1.1.1.1. Fumaric Acid
- 1.1.1.2. Lactic Acid
- 1.1.1.3. Propionic Acid
- 1.1.1.4. Other Acidifiers
-
1.1.1. By Sub Additive
-
1.2. Amino Acids
- 1.2.1. Lysine
- 1.2.2. Methionine
- 1.2.3. Threonine
- 1.2.4. Tryptophan
- 1.2.5. Other Amino Acids
-
1.3. Antibiotics
- 1.3.1. Bacitracin
- 1.3.2. Penicillins
- 1.3.3. Tetracyclines
- 1.3.4. Tylosin
- 1.3.5. Other Antibiotics
-
1.4. Antioxidants
- 1.4.1. Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA)
- 1.4.2. Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT)
- 1.4.3. Citric Acid
- 1.4.4. Ethoxyquin
- 1.4.5. Propyl Gallate
- 1.4.6. Tocopherols
- 1.4.7. Other Antioxidants
-
1.5. Binders
- 1.5.1. Natural Binders
- 1.5.2. Synthetic Binders
-
1.6. Enzymes
- 1.6.1. Carbohydrases
- 1.6.2. Phytases
- 1.6.3. Other Enzymes
- 1.7. Flavors & Sweeteners
-
1.8. Minerals
- 1.8.1. Macrominerals
- 1.8.2. Microminerals
-
1.9. Mycotoxin Detoxifiers
- 1.9.1. Biotransformers
-
1.10. Phytogenics
- 1.10.1. Essential Oil
- 1.10.2. Herbs & Spices
- 1.10.3. Other Phytogenics
-
1.11. Pigments
- 1.11.1. Carotenoids
- 1.11.2. Curcumin & Spirulina
-
1.12. Prebiotics
- 1.12.1. Fructo Oligosaccharides
- 1.12.2. Galacto Oligosaccharides
- 1.12.3. Inulin
- 1.12.4. Lactulose
- 1.12.5. Mannan Oligosaccharides
- 1.12.6. Xylo Oligosaccharides
- 1.12.7. Other Prebiotics
-
1.13. Probiotics
- 1.13.1. Bifidobacteria
- 1.13.2. Enterococcus
- 1.13.3. Lactobacilli
- 1.13.4. Pediococcus
- 1.13.5. Streptococcus
- 1.13.6. Other Probiotics
-
1.14. Vitamins
- 1.14.1. Vitamin A
- 1.14.2. Vitamin B
- 1.14.3. Vitamin C
- 1.14.4. Vitamin E
- 1.14.5. Other Vitamins
-
1.15. Yeast
- 1.15.1. Live Yeast
- 1.15.2. Selenium Yeast
- 1.15.3. Spent Yeast
- 1.15.4. Torula Dried Yeast
- 1.15.5. Whey Yeast
- 1.15.6. Yeast Derivatives
-
1.1. Acidifiers
-
2. Animal
-
2.1. Aquaculture
-
2.1.1. By Sub Animal
- 2.1.1.1. Fish
- 2.1.1.2. Shrimp
- 2.1.1.3. Other Aquaculture Species
-
2.1.1. By Sub Animal
-
2.2. Poultry
- 2.2.1. Broiler
- 2.2.2. Layer
- 2.2.3. Other Poultry Birds
-
2.3. Ruminants
- 2.3.1. Beef Cattle
- 2.3.2. Dairy Cattle
- 2.3.3. Other Ruminants
- 2.4. Swine
- 2.5. Other Animals
-
2.1. Aquaculture
China Feed Additive Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. China

China Feed Additive Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of 6.40% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. Growing Livestock Population; Area Under Forage Production is Increasing; Increasing Demand for Animal Products
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Competition Amongst Industries and High Input Prices; Growing Shift Toward Vegan-Based Diet
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. China Feed Additive Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Additive
- 5.1.1. Acidifiers
- 5.1.1.1. By Sub Additive
- 5.1.1.1.1. Fumaric Acid
- 5.1.1.1.2. Lactic Acid
- 5.1.1.1.3. Propionic Acid
- 5.1.1.1.4. Other Acidifiers
- 5.1.1.1. By Sub Additive
- 5.1.2. Amino Acids
- 5.1.2.1. Lysine
- 5.1.2.2. Methionine
- 5.1.2.3. Threonine
- 5.1.2.4. Tryptophan
- 5.1.2.5. Other Amino Acids
- 5.1.3. Antibiotics
- 5.1.3.1. Bacitracin
- 5.1.3.2. Penicillins
- 5.1.3.3. Tetracyclines
- 5.1.3.4. Tylosin
- 5.1.3.5. Other Antibiotics
- 5.1.4. Antioxidants
- 5.1.4.1. Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA)
- 5.1.4.2. Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT)
- 5.1.4.3. Citric Acid
- 5.1.4.4. Ethoxyquin
- 5.1.4.5. Propyl Gallate
- 5.1.4.6. Tocopherols
- 5.1.4.7. Other Antioxidants
- 5.1.5. Binders
- 5.1.5.1. Natural Binders
- 5.1.5.2. Synthetic Binders
- 5.1.6. Enzymes
- 5.1.6.1. Carbohydrases
- 5.1.6.2. Phytases
- 5.1.6.3. Other Enzymes
- 5.1.7. Flavors & Sweeteners
- 5.1.8. Minerals
- 5.1.8.1. Macrominerals
- 5.1.8.2. Microminerals
- 5.1.9. Mycotoxin Detoxifiers
- 5.1.9.1. Biotransformers
- 5.1.10. Phytogenics
- 5.1.10.1. Essential Oil
- 5.1.10.2. Herbs & Spices
- 5.1.10.3. Other Phytogenics
- 5.1.11. Pigments
- 5.1.11.1. Carotenoids
- 5.1.11.2. Curcumin & Spirulina
- 5.1.12. Prebiotics
- 5.1.12.1. Fructo Oligosaccharides
- 5.1.12.2. Galacto Oligosaccharides
- 5.1.12.3. Inulin
- 5.1.12.4. Lactulose
- 5.1.12.5. Mannan Oligosaccharides
- 5.1.12.6. Xylo Oligosaccharides
- 5.1.12.7. Other Prebiotics
- 5.1.13. Probiotics
- 5.1.13.1. Bifidobacteria
- 5.1.13.2. Enterococcus
- 5.1.13.3. Lactobacilli
- 5.1.13.4. Pediococcus
- 5.1.13.5. Streptococcus
- 5.1.13.6. Other Probiotics
- 5.1.14. Vitamins
- 5.1.14.1. Vitamin A
- 5.1.14.2. Vitamin B
- 5.1.14.3. Vitamin C
- 5.1.14.4. Vitamin E
- 5.1.14.5. Other Vitamins
- 5.1.15. Yeast
- 5.1.15.1. Live Yeast
- 5.1.15.2. Selenium Yeast
- 5.1.15.3. Spent Yeast
- 5.1.15.4. Torula Dried Yeast
- 5.1.15.5. Whey Yeast
- 5.1.15.6. Yeast Derivatives
- 5.1.1. Acidifiers
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Animal
- 5.2.1. Aquaculture
- 5.2.1.1. By Sub Animal
- 5.2.1.1.1. Fish
- 5.2.1.1.2. Shrimp
- 5.2.1.1.3. Other Aquaculture Species
- 5.2.1.1. By Sub Animal
- 5.2.2. Poultry
- 5.2.2.1. Broiler
- 5.2.2.2. Layer
- 5.2.2.3. Other Poultry Birds
- 5.2.3. Ruminants
- 5.2.3.1. Beef Cattle
- 5.2.3.2. Dairy Cattle
- 5.2.3.3. Other Ruminants
- 5.2.4. Swine
- 5.2.5. Other Animals
- 5.2.1. Aquaculture
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. China
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Additive
- 6. Competitive Analysis
- 6.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 6.2. Company Profiles
- 6.2.1 Prinova Group LLC
- 6.2.1.1. Overview
- 6.2.1.2. Products
- 6.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.2 Solvay S A
- 6.2.2.1. Overview
- 6.2.2.2. Products
- 6.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.3 SHV (Nutreco NV)
- 6.2.3.1. Overview
- 6.2.3.2. Products
- 6.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.4 DSM Nutritional Products AG
- 6.2.4.1. Overview
- 6.2.4.2. Products
- 6.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.5 Kerry Group Plc
- 6.2.5.1. Overview
- 6.2.5.2. Products
- 6.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.6 Ajinomoto Co Inc
- 6.2.6.1. Overview
- 6.2.6.2. Products
- 6.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.7 Archer Daniel Midland Co
- 6.2.7.1. Overview
- 6.2.7.2. Products
- 6.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.8 BASF SE
- 6.2.8.1. Overview
- 6.2.8.2. Products
- 6.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.9 Alltech Inc
- 6.2.9.1. Overview
- 6.2.9.2. Products
- 6.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.10 Cargill Inc
- 6.2.10.1. Overview
- 6.2.10.2. Products
- 6.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.11 Adisseo
- 6.2.11.1. Overview
- 6.2.11.2. Products
- 6.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.1 Prinova Group LLC
List of Figures
- Figure 1: China Feed Additive Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: China Feed Additive Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: China Feed Additive Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: China Feed Additive Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Additive 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: China Feed Additive Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Animal 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: China Feed Additive Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: China Feed Additive Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: China Feed Additive Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Additive 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: China Feed Additive Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Animal 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: China Feed Additive Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the China Feed Additive Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 6.40%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the China Feed Additive Market?
Key companies in the market include Prinova Group LLC, Solvay S A, SHV (Nutreco NV), DSM Nutritional Products AG, Kerry Group Plc, Ajinomoto Co Inc, Archer Daniel Midland Co, BASF SE, Alltech Inc, Cargill Inc, Adisseo.
3. What are the main segments of the China Feed Additive Market?
The market segments include Additive, Animal.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Growing Livestock Population; Area Under Forage Production is Increasing; Increasing Demand for Animal Products.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Competition Amongst Industries and High Input Prices; Growing Shift Toward Vegan-Based Diet.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
December 2022: Adisseo group had agreed to acquire Nor-Feed and its subsidiaries to develop and register botanical additives for use in animal feed.September 2022: The new 180,000-ton liquid methionine plant of Adisseo in Nanjing, China, started production. The facility is one of the largest global liquid methionine production capacities that boosted the penetration of liquid methionine manufactured by the company in the global market.June 2022: Delacon and Cargill collaborated to establish a global plant-based phytogenic feed additives business for enhanced animal nutrition. The partnership has helped in extensive feed additives expertise as well as an increase in the global presence.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 3800, USD 4500, and USD 5800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "China Feed Additive Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the China Feed Additive Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the China Feed Additive Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the China Feed Additive Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence