US seeks European egg imports as prices continue to soar

USA – The United States has approached Denmark and other European nations to explore the possibility of importing eggs as American consumers face record-high prices.

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) made formal inquiries to European egg producers in February, seeking information on their capacity to supply eggs to the American market.

This request comes at a time when the US has imposed new tariffs on various countries, including in Europe, and has issued further economic threats. 

President Donald Trump has also warned of sanctions if Denmark does not agree to US control over Greenland.

Wholesale egg prices in the US have surged as bird flu continues to devastate the laying hen population, reducing supply. 

Despite Trump’s promise to lower egg prices upon taking office, they increased by 59% in February compared to the same month last year, marking the first full month of his administration.

In a letter reviewed by Reuters, a USDA representative in Europe sought estimates from egg producers on the number of eggs they could potentially export, provided they met US import standards. 

A follow-up letter sent in early March to the Danish Egg Association requested a more precise figure, stating that Washington was trying to determine the available supply.

A spokesperson for the Danish Egg Association confirmed that they were evaluating the request but noted that Europe was also experiencing a shortage of eggs. 

Consumption has been rising globally while bird flu continues to disrupt production, leaving little surplus for export.

The spokesperson also pointed out that exporting eggs to the US would require navigating strict hygiene and regulatory requirements. 

They indicated that further details were needed before any agreement could be considered.

Meanwhile, Turkey has already begun exporting eggs to the US, with shipments totaling approximately 15,000 metric tons.

Finland Faces Regulatory Hurdles

Authorities in Finland have also been contacted regarding egg exports to the US. 

However, the Finnish Poultry Association stated that shipments would not be possible at this stage, as no market access agreements exist between the two countries.

Veera Lehtilä, the organization’s executive director, explained that exporting eggs requires extensive negotiations, inspections, and regulatory approvals, making it a lengthy and complicated process.

Helsingin Sanomat reported that a response was drafted in cooperation with the Finnish Food Authority and sent to US officials. 

However, Finland currently lacks the necessary approval to export egg products to the US.

Even if Finland were to secure approval, Lehtilä noted that the impact on the US market would likely be minimal.

Last month, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins announced a US$1 billion (US$1,000,000,000) plan to secure additional egg supplies as part of the government’s response to the ongoing bird flu crisis.

The US embassy in Copenhagen did not provide an immediate response to inquiries about the request, while Reuters also sought comment from the USDA.