Turkish authorities have introduced a $0.50 per kilogram export levy on eggs to stabilize domestic prices amid rising international demand, particularly from the U.S. Following an avian flu outbreak that affected U.S. supply chains, Türkiye plans to export 15,000 tons to meet demand. Domestic production is strong, with production levels consistently over 100 billion eggs between 2020 and 2024.
In response to the rising demand for eggs from international markets like the United States, Turkish authorities have implemented measures aimed at stabilizing domestic prices. The situation has been exacerbated by an avian flu outbreak in the U.S., which has impacted supply chains and heightened reliance on egg imports.Due to this demand surge, the Turkish government has introduced a $0.50 per kilogram export levy on table eggs under the Support and Price Stability Fund. This regulation aims to mitigate potential price increases in domestic markets. By June, Türkiye plans to export 15,000 tons of eggs to the U.S., reflecting its growing export capabilities.
According to data from the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK), Türkiye produced over 100 billion eggs from 2020 to 2024. Production has seen fluctuations, with notable figures including 19.8 billion eggs in 2020 and 2022, a dip to 19.3 billion in 2021, and then an increase to 20.6 billion in 2023, reaching a record of 21.2 billion in 2024. In addition, non-incubation chicken egg trade has varied, with total exports surpassing $1 billion over the last five years, primarily to the United Arab Emirates, the leading importer of Turkish eggs.
Ibrahim Afyon, president of the Egg Producers Central Union (YUM-BİR), stated that the new export levy is intended to prevent unnecessary domestic price hikes. He noted, “With rising demand from the U.S. and Europe, we implemented this measure to stabilize local prices.” Afyon highlighted that there is no current supply shortage and that production is on the rise, suggesting that egg prices are influenced by market perceptions rather than actual supply constraints.
In light of concerns about possible price increases during Ramadan, Afyon reassured consumers there is no cause for price inflation, asserting a strong domestic supply. “Our domestic supply remains strong, with a self-sufficiency rate of nearly 120 percent, which can be increased to 135 percent if needed,” he added, reflecting confidence in the egg production capacity.
Turkish authorities are proactively managing egg prices through regulatory measures amid increased demand and supply disruptions led by external events. By imposing an export levy, they aim to stabilize domestic markets despite rising international demands. The production levels in Türkiye remain robust, providing significant confidence against inflation during critical periods such as Ramadan.
Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com
