U.S. to Import Millions of Eggs from Turkey and South Korea

 

The U.S. is also in talks with other countries for additional egg supplies, though specific nations have not been disclosed. [Natasha T/Unsplash]

In response to a nationwide egg shortage and skyrocketing prices, the United States has announced plans to import hundreds of millions of eggs from Turkey and South Korea. The move comes as the country grapples with the aftermath of a devastating bird flu outbreak that has decimated poultry populations and disrupted domestic egg production.  

Egg prices in the U.S. have surged by over 65% in the past year, driven by the outbreak, which has affected millions of chickens across the country. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the average price of a dozen eggs has risen sharply, with projections indicating a further 41% increase by the end of 2025. This has placed a significant burden on consumers, particularly low-income families who rely on eggs as an affordable source of protein.  

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins confirmed that the imports from Turkey and South Korea are part of a short-term strategy to ease the shortage and stabilize prices. "While we work to rebuild our domestic poultry populations, these imports will help ensure that American families have access to this essential food item," Rollins said in a statement.  

The USDA is also in discussions with other countries to secure additional egg supplies, though specific nations have not yet been named. The goal is to supplement domestic production until U.S. poultry farms can recover, a process expected to take several months.  

The bird flu outbreak, which began in late 2024, has been one of the most severe in U.S. history, affecting over 50 million chickens nationwide. Efforts to replenish poultry flocks are underway, but the recovery process is slow due to the time required to raise healthy, egg-laying hens.  

Once domestic production is restored, the U.S. aims to return to its reliance on homegrown eggs. "This is a temporary measure to address an urgent need," Rollins emphasized. "Our long-term focus remains on supporting American farmers and ensuring the resilience of our food supply chain."  

The egg shortage has had a ripple effect across the food industry, impacting bakeries, restaurants, and other businesses that rely on eggs as a key ingredient. Consumers have also felt the pinch, with many resorting to substitutes or reducing their egg consumption altogether.  

The import of eggs from Turkey and South Korea is expected to provide some relief, though experts caution that prices may remain elevated until domestic production fully rebounds.  

As the U.S. navigates this crisis, the focus remains on rebuilding poultry populations and implementing measures to prevent future outbreaks. The USDA has urged farmers to enhance biosecurity protocols and has pledged additional support to help the industry recover.  

For now, the import of millions of eggs from overseas offers a glimmer of hope for American consumers, providing a much-needed stopgap until the country’s egg supply returns to normal.