Without a cooperative agreement from poultry farmers, the government will have no choice but to withdraw protections and support. A proposed $2 increase would raise the wholesale price of eggs to $14, representing a 40% rise over two years. Retail prices could soar to $18-19 per dozen, making this vital source of protein unaffordable for the most vulnerable in our society.
If we allow the emergence of an egg cartel that unjustifiably raises prices, we risk facing further unnecessary increases in the future. As a result, the egg market will be opened up. The government plans to eliminate the 40% duties and taxes on imported eggs and will cease providing support or subsidies to local poultry farmers. These subsidies were intended to lower prices, not inflate profits.
A new Poultry Development Board will be established to regulate the industry, setting egg prices and ensuring sanitary conditions on farms to reduce the risk of salmonella and other diseases. Farms that fail to meet these standards will be shut down for consumer protection.
Under this new arrangement, imported eggs could be sold for $12.50 per dozen, significantly lower than the expected $19.00 for local eggs.
