The United States is facing a surge in egg prices due to a severe bird flu outbreak that has devastated poultry flocks. To address this crisis, the Trump administration has decided to import millions of eggs from Turkey and South Korea in an effort to stabilize supply and ease the financial burden on American consumers.
Why Are Egg Prices Rising in the U.S.?
Egg prices in the U.S. have skyrocketed by over 65% in 2024, with projections indicating an additional 41% increase in 2025. The primary cause is a widespread avian influenza (H5N1) outbreak that began in 2022, killing over 156 million birds. The drastic reduction in egg-laying hens has created a supply shortage, driving up prices.
Why Did Poland, Finland, and Denmark Decline U.S. Requests for Egg Exports?
Earlier this year, U.S. embassies reached out to Poland, Finland, and Denmark to secure egg imports. However, these countries rejected the request due to concerns over maintaining domestic supply and adhering to strict European Union regulatory standards. Poland’s National Chamber of Poultry and Feed Producers confirmed that they were approached in February but ultimately decided against exporting eggs to the U.S.
Turkey Steps in to Supply the U.S. with Eggs
With European suppliers unavailable, Turkey has stepped in to help meet U.S. demand. The Egg Producers Central Union (YUM-BIR) in Turkey confirmed that Turkey will export approximately 15,000 tons of eggs to the U.S. between February and July 2025. Valued at around $26 million, these shipments—spread across 700 containers—are expected to provide temporary relief for American consumers.
South Korea Joins the Effort to Stabilize Egg Prices
For the first time in history, South Korea has begun exporting eggs to the U.S. In March 2025, a South Korean farm named Gyerim Farm in Asan shipped 20 tons of eggs (equivalent to 335,160 eggs) to Georgia. This marks a significant step in diversifying America’s import sources and securing a steady egg supply as the U.S. poultry industry recovers.
What Is the U.S. Government Doing to Address the Crisis?
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has launched a $1 billion initiative to combat rising egg prices and strengthen domestic production. Key measures include:
- $500 million allocated for biosecurity measures to protect poultry farms.
- $100 million dedicated to vaccine research and development.
- $400 million in financial relief for farmers affected by the bird flu outbreak.
- Consulting services and up to 75% cost coverage for farms implementing enhanced security measures to prevent future outbreaks.
When Will Egg Prices Return to Normal?
Egg supplies are gradually improving, but retail prices may take time to reflect these changes. According to USDA officials, consumers might see noticeable price reductions by Easter 2025, as imports increase and domestic production stabilizes. However, the lag between wholesale and retail price adjustments means immediate relief at grocery stores may take longer.
Future Measures to Prevent Another Egg Shortage
The USDA is implementing long-term solutions to prevent future crises, including:
- Strengthening biosecurity protocols to protect poultry farms.
- Advancing vaccine research to combat avian influenza.
- Building international partnerships to diversify egg supply sources.
Will Imported Eggs Lower Prices?
With millions of eggs arriving from Turkey and South Korea in the coming months, the U.S. government hopes to ease the burden on consumers and stabilize the market. While full price relief may take time, these import efforts, combined with domestic initiatives, represent a strategic approach to overcoming this unprecedented crisis.
FAQs:
- Why is the U.S. importing eggs from Turkey and South Korea?
- The imports aim to address supply shortages caused by a severe bird flu outbreak.
- When will U.S. egg prices go down?
- Prices are expected to stabilize by Easter 2025 as imports and domestic supply improve.
