Record-Breaking Egg Prices Spur U.S. to Seek Imports Amid Bird Flu Outbreak

U.S. wholesale egg prices have reached unprecedented heights as a rapidly spreading outbreak of bird flu decimates supplies of laying hens. In response, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has initiated efforts to import eggs from international markets. As part of a $1 billion initiative to combat the effects of the bird flu, Secretary Brooke Rollins announced plans to seek imported eggs to help stabilize the market.

In late February, the USDA sent formal inquiries to egg-producing countries, seeking information on their ability and willingness to export eggs to the United States. The department aims to gain an estimate of the amount of eggs that can be feasibly sourced to address the supply shortage. Although several countries have been contacted, including Denmark and other European nations, there is currently no surplus of eggs in Europe. A representative from the Danish Egg Association mentioned they would investigate the possibility of exporting eggs.

"Washington is trying to get an estimate of the amount they could feasibly source," stated a representative of the USDA in Europe.

Turkey has already begun exporting approximately 15,000 tons of eggs to the U.S. since February. This move comes as egg prices in the United States surged by 59% on a year-on-year basis in February, further intensifying the need for imports. The USDA's request coincides with new U.S. tariffs on European countries, adding another layer of complexity to international negotiations.

The U.S. embassy in Copenhagen has not responded to requests for comment regarding these developments. Additionally, President Donald Trump has exerted economic pressure on Denmark, threatening sanctions unless Denmark hands over control of Greenland to the United States—a situation that may impact trade relations.

"We're still waiting to get more guidance from Washington on next steps, but do you have an estimate of the number of eggs that could be supplied to the United States (assuming they meet all the import requirements)," queried a USDA representative in Europe.