Key Insights
The Middle East and Africa Feed Antioxidants market, valued at approximately $XX million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.80% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. The rising demand for animal protein in a rapidly growing population across the MEA region is a primary driver. Increased awareness of animal health and the need to improve feed quality and shelf life are further stimulating market growth. Furthermore, stringent regulations regarding the use of antibiotics in animal feed are pushing the adoption of natural feed antioxidants as a safe and effective alternative. The market is segmented by antioxidant type (BHA, BHT, Ethoxyquin, and Others) and animal type (Ruminants, Poultry, Swine, Aquaculture, and Other Animal Types), reflecting diverse application needs. Poultry and ruminants currently dominate the animal type segment due to their significant contributions to meat production in the region. However, the aquaculture segment is expected to show significant growth potential in the coming years due to increasing seafood consumption. Key players like DSM Nutritional Products AG, Alltech, and Cargill Inc. are actively shaping the market landscape through product innovation and strategic partnerships.
Despite the positive outlook, certain challenges persist. Price fluctuations in raw materials and potential supply chain disruptions can influence market stability. The adoption rate of feed antioxidants varies across different regions within MEA, with some countries demonstrating higher awareness and adoption than others. Addressing these challenges through effective supply chain management and targeted educational initiatives for stakeholders across the value chain will be crucial for sustainable market expansion. The growth potential is particularly significant in countries experiencing rapid economic development and increasing agricultural activity within the region, such as South Africa, Kenya, and others in sub-Saharan Africa. Strategic investments in research and development aimed at creating innovative and cost-effective solutions tailored to specific animal types and regional needs will be vital for driving future growth.

Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the Middle East & Africa Feed Antioxidants Market, offering invaluable insights for stakeholders seeking to navigate this dynamic sector. The study covers the period from 2019 to 2033, with a base year of 2025 and a forecast period spanning 2025-2033. The report leverages extensive market research, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative data to deliver a holistic understanding of the market's current state, future trajectory, and key players. This analysis encompasses market sizing, segmentation, competitive landscape, and growth drivers, enabling informed decision-making for investors, manufacturers, and industry professionals. The market is projected to reach xx Million by 2033, exhibiting a significant CAGR.
Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Market Structure & Competitive Landscape
The Middle East and Africa feed antioxidants market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with key players like DSM Nutritional Products AG, Alltech, Layn Natural Ingredients Corp, Novus International, BASF SE, Cargill Inc, Biomi, and Perstorp holding significant market share. The Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) for 2025 is estimated at xx, indicating a moderately consolidated market. Innovation is a crucial driver, with companies focusing on developing natural and sustainable antioxidants to meet growing consumer demand for cleaner label products. Regulatory frameworks impacting feed additives vary across the region, influencing market dynamics. Product substitution is relatively low, with synthetic antioxidants like BHA and BHT holding strong positions due to their cost-effectiveness. However, natural antioxidants are gaining traction due to rising health and environmental concerns.
The market is segmented by animal type (ruminants, poultry, swine, aquaculture, others) and antioxidant type (BHA, BHT, Ethoxyquin, others). Poultry and ruminants currently dominate the animal type segment, driven by high livestock populations and feed consumption. Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity in the industry has been moderate in recent years, with xx M&A deals recorded between 2019 and 2024. Future M&A activity is expected to be driven by the consolidation trend, aiming to enhance market share and expand product portfolios.
Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Market Trends & Opportunities
The Middle East and Africa feed antioxidants market is experiencing robust growth, driven by factors such as the rising demand for animal protein, increasing livestock populations, and the growing awareness of animal health and feed efficiency. The market size is estimated at xx Million in 2025 and is projected to reach xx Million by 2033, registering a CAGR of xx%. This growth is fueled by technological advancements in antioxidant production, leading to improved efficacy and cost-effectiveness. Consumer preference for natural and sustainable products is pushing manufacturers to innovate and develop novel antioxidant solutions. The competitive landscape is dynamic, with established players facing increasing competition from smaller, specialized firms focusing on niche segments like natural antioxidants. Market penetration rates for various antioxidant types vary significantly, with BHA and BHT holding a dominant share due to their established presence and cost advantages. However, the demand for natural antioxidants is growing rapidly, particularly in the poultry and ruminant feed segments, presenting significant market opportunities.

Dominant Markets & Segments in Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market
The poultry segment holds the largest market share within the animal type category, driven by the high demand for poultry products across the region. Key growth drivers include:
- Increasing poultry consumption: Rising populations and changing dietary habits are driving up poultry consumption, leading to higher feed demand.
- Government support: Many countries are actively supporting poultry farming through subsidies and infrastructure development.
- Improved feed efficiency: The use of antioxidants enhances feed efficiency, leading to cost savings for farmers.
Among antioxidant types, BHA and BHT remain dominant due to their cost-effectiveness and widespread use. However, the demand for Ethoxyquin and other natural antioxidants is rising steadily, presenting opportunities for innovative manufacturers. Egypt, Nigeria, and South Africa represent major markets within the region, characterized by large livestock populations and expanding feed industries. The rapid urbanization and growth of the middle class contribute to an increased demand for animal products, further stimulating the feed antioxidants market.
Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Product Analysis
Technological advancements in antioxidant production are leading to the development of more effective and sustainable products. Encapsulation technologies are improving antioxidant stability and bioavailability in feed, enhancing efficacy. The market is seeing a shift towards natural antioxidants, such as tocopherols and rosemary extracts, driven by consumer preference for cleaner label products. This shift necessitates continuous innovation to meet changing demand while maintaining cost competitiveness. Companies are developing targeted antioxidant formulations tailored to specific animal types and production systems, optimizing performance and minimizing environmental impact.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market
Key Drivers:
- Rising demand for animal protein: The increasing population and changing dietary patterns are driving up the demand for meat, poultry, and fish.
- Focus on animal health and welfare: Improved animal health and productivity are boosting the demand for feed additives, including antioxidants.
- Government regulations and initiatives: The implementation of stricter regulations regarding food safety and quality are creating a more conducive market environment.
Challenges:
- Fluctuating raw material prices: The prices of raw materials used in antioxidant production can significantly impact profitability and market stability.
- Stringent regulatory requirements: Varying regulatory landscapes across different countries can create barriers to market entry and expansion.
- Competition from cheaper alternatives: The presence of cheaper, lower-quality antioxidants poses a challenge for high-quality product manufacturers. This is estimated to impact market growth by approximately xx% in the forecast period.
Growth Drivers in the Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Market
The growth of the Middle East and Africa feed antioxidants market is primarily driven by the increasing demand for animal-based protein sources, particularly poultry and ruminants. Technological advancements in feed formulation and processing are creating opportunities for the adoption of superior antioxidant solutions. Moreover, supportive government policies and initiatives promoting animal agriculture further stimulate market expansion. The rising awareness regarding animal health and welfare among consumers and producers is another significant driver.
Challenges Impacting Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Growth
The market faces significant challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices and stringent regulatory requirements across different countries in the region. The fragmented nature of the market, coupled with varying levels of infrastructure development, hinders efficient distribution and market penetration. Intense competition from both domestic and international players adds further complexity to the market landscape. These factors collectively pose barriers to market growth and require proactive strategies to mitigate their impact.
Key Players Shaping the Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Market
- DSM Nutritional Products AG
- Alltech
- Layn Natural Ingredients Corp
- Novus International
- BASF SE
- Cargill Inc
- Biomi
- Perstorp
Significant Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Industry Milestones
- 2020: DSM Nutritional Products AG launched a new range of natural antioxidants for poultry feed.
- 2021: Alltech acquired a smaller feed additive company, expanding its product portfolio.
- 2022: New regulations regarding the use of certain synthetic antioxidants were introduced in several countries within the region.
- 2023: Layn Natural Ingredients Corp. partnered with a distributor to enhance market reach.
- 2024: Several companies invested in capacity expansion to meet growing demand.
Future Outlook for Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Market
The Middle East and Africa feed antioxidants market is poised for continued growth, driven by several factors. The expanding livestock sector, increasing consumer demand for animal protein, and technological advancements in antioxidant production will collectively shape future market dynamics. Companies that successfully adapt to changing consumer preferences, regulatory landscapes, and technological innovations will be well-positioned to capture significant market share. The demand for natural and sustainable antioxidants is expected to increase significantly in the coming years, presenting attractive investment and business opportunities.
Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Segmentation
-
1. Type
- 1.1. BHA
- 1.2. BHT
- 1.3. Ethoxyquin
- 1.4. Others
-
2. Animal Type
- 2.1. Ruminants
- 2.2. Poultry
- 2.3. Swine
- 2.4. Aquaculture
- 2.5. Other Animal Types
-
3. Geography
- 3.1. Saudi Arabia
- 3.2. United Arab Emirates
- 3.3. South Africa
- 3.4. Rest of Middle East & Africa
Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Saudi Arabia
- 2. United Arab Emirates
- 3. South Africa
- 4. Rest of Middle East

Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants 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 4.80% 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. Increased Demand for Meat; Initiatives By the Key Players; Focus on Animal nutrition and Health
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Shift Toward Vegan- Based Diet; Changing Raw Material Prices and Strict Government Rules to Restrict Market Growth
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Rising Preference Towards Animal Based Products
- 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. Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 5.1.1. BHA
- 5.1.2. BHT
- 5.1.3. Ethoxyquin
- 5.1.4. Others
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Animal Type
- 5.2.1. Ruminants
- 5.2.2. Poultry
- 5.2.3. Swine
- 5.2.4. Aquaculture
- 5.2.5. Other Animal Types
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 5.3.1. Saudi Arabia
- 5.3.2. United Arab Emirates
- 5.3.3. South Africa
- 5.3.4. Rest of Middle East & Africa
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.4.1. Saudi Arabia
- 5.4.2. United Arab Emirates
- 5.4.3. South Africa
- 5.4.4. Rest of Middle East
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6. Saudi Arabia Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6.1.1. BHA
- 6.1.2. BHT
- 6.1.3. Ethoxyquin
- 6.1.4. Others
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Animal Type
- 6.2.1. Ruminants
- 6.2.2. Poultry
- 6.2.3. Swine
- 6.2.4. Aquaculture
- 6.2.5. Other Animal Types
- 6.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 6.3.1. Saudi Arabia
- 6.3.2. United Arab Emirates
- 6.3.3. South Africa
- 6.3.4. Rest of Middle East & Africa
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7. United Arab Emirates Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7.1.1. BHA
- 7.1.2. BHT
- 7.1.3. Ethoxyquin
- 7.1.4. Others
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Animal Type
- 7.2.1. Ruminants
- 7.2.2. Poultry
- 7.2.3. Swine
- 7.2.4. Aquaculture
- 7.2.5. Other Animal Types
- 7.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 7.3.1. Saudi Arabia
- 7.3.2. United Arab Emirates
- 7.3.3. South Africa
- 7.3.4. Rest of Middle East & Africa
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 8. South Africa Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 8.1.1. BHA
- 8.1.2. BHT
- 8.1.3. Ethoxyquin
- 8.1.4. Others
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Animal Type
- 8.2.1. Ruminants
- 8.2.2. Poultry
- 8.2.3. Swine
- 8.2.4. Aquaculture
- 8.2.5. Other Animal Types
- 8.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 8.3.1. Saudi Arabia
- 8.3.2. United Arab Emirates
- 8.3.3. South Africa
- 8.3.4. Rest of Middle East & Africa
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 9. Rest of Middle East Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 9.1.1. BHA
- 9.1.2. BHT
- 9.1.3. Ethoxyquin
- 9.1.4. Others
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Animal Type
- 9.2.1. Ruminants
- 9.2.2. Poultry
- 9.2.3. Swine
- 9.2.4. Aquaculture
- 9.2.5. Other Animal Types
- 9.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 9.3.1. Saudi Arabia
- 9.3.2. United Arab Emirates
- 9.3.3. South Africa
- 9.3.4. Rest of Middle East & Africa
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 10. South Africa Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. Sudan Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. Uganda Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. Tanzania Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14. Kenya Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15. Rest of Africa Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 16. Competitive Analysis
- 16.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 16.2. Company Profiles
- 16.2.1 DSM Nutritional Products AG
- 16.2.1.1. Overview
- 16.2.1.2. Products
- 16.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.2 Alltech
- 16.2.2.1. Overview
- 16.2.2.2. Products
- 16.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.3 Layn Natural Ingredients Corp
- 16.2.3.1. Overview
- 16.2.3.2. Products
- 16.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.4 Novus International
- 16.2.4.1. Overview
- 16.2.4.2. Products
- 16.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.5 BASF SE
- 16.2.5.1. Overview
- 16.2.5.2. Products
- 16.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.6 Cargill Inc
- 16.2.6.1. Overview
- 16.2.6.2. Products
- 16.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.7 Biomi
- 16.2.7.1. Overview
- 16.2.7.2. Products
- 16.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.8 Perstorp
- 16.2.8.1. Overview
- 16.2.8.2. Products
- 16.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.1 DSM Nutritional Products AG
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Animal Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: South Africa Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Sudan Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Uganda Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Tanzania Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Kenya Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Rest of Africa Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Animal Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Animal Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Animal Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Animal Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 4.80%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market?
Key companies in the market include DSM Nutritional Products AG, Alltech, Layn Natural Ingredients Corp, Novus International, BASF SE, Cargill Inc, Biomi, Perstorp.
3. What are the main segments of the Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market?
The market segments include Type, Animal Type, Geography.
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?
Increased Demand for Meat; Initiatives By the Key Players; Focus on Animal nutrition and Health.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Rising Preference Towards Animal Based Products.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Shift Toward Vegan- Based Diet; Changing Raw Material Prices and Strict Government Rules to Restrict Market Growth.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
N/A
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 5250, and USD 8750 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 "Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants 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 Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants 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 Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Middle East Africa Feed Antioxidants 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