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Egg prices have skyrocketed across the United States, leading to a surprising rise in smuggling cases as Americans attempt to bring cheaper eggs from Mexico and Canada. According to the Wall Street Journal, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) data reveals a 36% increase in “egg interceptions” this year compared to last year.
Imports of eggs into the U.S. are strictly regulated due to concerns about the spread of diseases such as avian flu. Authorities warn that eggs not inspected through proper channels pose a significant health risk. Despite this, CBP’s Laredo office reported a 54% increase in egg smuggling cases along the Texas border, while incidents in San Diego have more than doubled. In El Paso alone, border agents have caught 90 would-be egg importers since January.
The primary reason for this desperate smuggling is the massive price gap. In the U.S., the average price for a dozen top-quality eggs reached $5.90 last month, compared to $3 per dozen a year ago, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. In some cities, prices have soared beyond $10 per dozen. Meanwhile, in Mexico, eggs cost less than $2 per dozen, with some cities seeing prices at around $2.30, according to Mexican government data.
CBP spokesperson Roger Maier highlighted the financial motivation behind the surge in smuggling. “The price is like a third of what it is in the U.S.,” he said. First-time offenders caught smuggling eggs face a fine of $300—equivalent to around 50 dozen eggs in the U.S. or 150 dozen in Mexico.
The rising prices have also led to significant changes in consumer habits. Popular restaurant chain Waffle House has introduced a 50-cent surcharge per egg in its dishes.
Why Are Egg Prices So High in the U.S.?
One of the main reasons behind the price surge is the outbreak of avian flu, which has significantly impacted egg production. Additionally, consumer stockpiling has contributed to sustained high prices.
The U.S. Department of Justice has launched an investigation into whether major egg producers have conspired to inflate prices or restrict supply. In response, the Department of Agriculture announced plans to invest up to $1 billion in tackling egg costs, including $500 million dedicated to improving biosecurity measures at egg farms.
To address the shortage, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has indicated that the country may increase imports of inspected eggs. Meanwhile, Turkey has already started exporting around 16,000 tons of eggs to the U.S.
Sources By Agencies
