WASHINGTON (Agencies): The United States has reached out to European Union nations, including Denmark, Sweden, and Finland, to secure egg imports as domestic prices soar to unprecedented levels. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) initiated the request in late February, citing a severe shortage caused by a bird flu outbreak that has decimated egg supplies.
US wholesale egg prices recently hit an all-time high of $8.41 per dozen, marking a staggering 200% increase from the previous year. The USDA’s inquiries come despite ongoing trade tensions between Washington and Brussels over tariffs imposed by the US on EU goods.
European producers, however, have expressed concerns about meeting the US demand. A spokesperson for the Danish Egg Association noted that Europe is also grappling with a global egg shortage due to rising consumption and bird flu outbreaks. Hygiene regulations and other logistical challenges further complicate potential exports.
Meanwhile, the US Justice Department has launched an investigation into domestic egg suppliers, probing allegations of price collusion. This development adds another layer of complexity to the crisis.
The situation unfolds against the backdrop of escalating trade disputes. Earlier this week, President Donald Trump imposed a 25% tariff on EU steel and aluminum imports, prompting the European Commission to announce counter-tariffs on $28 billion worth of US goods, set to take effect in April.