Illegal import of eggs from India stopped, farmers in relief with price of eggs

Chitwan, Nov 23 — Egg prices in Nepal have surged sharply after the tightening of entry and exit points along the Indian border halted illegal imports from India. The new rates, issued by the Nepal Layers Poultry Breeders Association, came into effect today.

As per the revised price list, a crate of 30 extra-large (XL) eggs now costs Rs 520, large eggs Rs 505, and medium eggs Rs 490. Association President Binod Pokharel said the prices have increased by Rs 55 per crate compared to earlier rates.

Pokharel noted that Nepali farmers are finally able to receive at least the cost price after the flow of illegally imported Indian eggs came to a stop. The stricter border checks are reportedly linked to ongoing elections in India. The cost of producing an egg in Nepal stands at Rs 16.57 per unit.

Demand for eggs typically rises during the winter, further influencing prices. Three months ago, the price of XL eggs had climbed to Rs 530 per crate before dropping to around Rs 400. The current adjustment, Pokharel said, brings prices back to a sustainable level for farmers.

Nepal’s daily egg production is estimated at around 4 million units.