Eggs prices surge as intense heat cuts production

Chitwan, May 17: The price of egg in the country has increased after production dropped since the beginning of the summer season.     

The Nepal Layers Poultry Farmers Association has raised the support price of eggs, with large-sized eggs now priced at Rs 515 per crate (30 eggs) while that of the medium size is Rs 485 per crate at farm level.     

Consumer prices have been fixed at Rs 25 per egg. Previously, large eggs were priced at Rs 485 and medium eggs at Rs 435 per crate.     

Association's Chairperson Binod Pokharel explained that the hike in the price of egg is also attributed to the decline in its production which, he added, has been affected by intense heat coupled with increased market demand.     

Pokharel informed that demand has risen due to higher tourism during the recent two-day public holidays in public offices and schools.     

Furthermore, poultry farmers are also facing labour shortages as many are quitting the industry. In addition, infection outbreaks among chickens have further reduced supply.     

According to the Association, the production cost of one egg is Rs 19.12, but farmers are still struggling to recover their production costs.     

In recent years, many poultry farmers have reportedly been exiting the business due to low returns, falling production, outbreaks of poultry diseases and increasing bank loans.(RSS)