Turkey has begun exporting about 15 thousand tons of eggs to the United States due to the spread of avian influenza, which has led to a decrease in production and an increase in prices. Millions of chickens are under the threat of culling due to the inability to realize the promise made by U.S. President Donald Trump to reduce weekly expenses. Grocery stores are reducing offered portions, while restaurants are raising prices on egg dishes.
The chairman of the Central Association of Egg Producers in Turkey, Ibrahim Ayun, stated to Reuters that the exports began this month and will continue until July. "The export will be implemented through our member companies that have obtained the necessary licenses, while two companies will coordinate the process," he added. "There will be a total shipment of 15 thousand tons of eggs, which is equivalent to 700 containers."
The U.S. is working on limited distribution of the avian influenza strain, which was first detected in a large cattle farm in Texas in March of this year, and later spread to several other states. The virus has infected approximately 70 people since April, one person has died, mostly being workers on farms working with infected birds or large cattle farms.
The pandemic among birds, which began in 2022, led to the loss of about 160 million birds, including chickens, turkeys, and other birds, according to American data. The increase in cases of infection in recent times has led to a shortage of eggs.
Ayun noted that American companies are seeking alternative import sources due to the lack of offers, which has led to negotiations with Turkish suppliers. He explained that it is expected that the deal will bring export revenues of about 26 million dollars, adding that Turkey is one of the largest 10 global exporters of eggs.
