Egg Prices in Russia: Why a Fall in Costs Is Unlikely

Last year, the government temporarily reduced customs duties on eggs in an attempt to saturate the market and curb price increases. Despite this, egg prices continue to rise. At the end of December, Russia imported a small quantity of eggs from Azerbaijan, and in January, two shipments of eggs from Turkey. However, according to Rosstat, egg prices haven't actually decreased; on the contrary, they have risen by an average of 4 percent nationwide, with some regions even seeing increases of 5.1-10.2 percent.

Some regions have reported slight price declines of 0.1-0.3 percent, but these are the exception rather than the rule. In chain stores, eggs cost approximately 130 to 150 rubles per dozen, and can sometimes be found for less, around 87-90 rubles. However, representatives of the Russian Poultry Union assert that a significant price reduction is not expected, even with the influx of imported products.

Galina Bobyleva, General Director of the Russian Poultry Union, stated: "Eggs won't get cheaper. In my opinion, current prices of 110 to 125 rubles per dozen are absolutely normal, fair, and adequate for this market."

Thus, despite expectations of lower egg prices in Russia, experts from the Russian Poultry Union doubt the possibility of a significant price reduction. Current prices, ranging from 110 to 125 rubles per dozen, are considered adequate and fair for the market, in their opinion. Egg

Imports and Their Impact on the Russian Market:

In recent weeks, egg prices in Russia have risen significantly, raising concerns among consumers and producers. Some experts attribute this increase to increased egg imports from abroad. However, the government has not yet officially responded to the question of whether the influx of imported eggs has impacted market prices.

State Duma Deputy Vladimir Kashin sent an official request to the government to inquire whether a response to the bill will be submitted, and if so, within what timeframe. However, so far, no response has been received to the parliamentarian's letter.

The Ministry of Agriculture also declined to provide a definitive answer to the question about the impact of egg imports on prices. A spokesperson for the ministry stated that the market situation is currently being analyzed, and the government will decide on necessary measures.

However, some experts believe that egg imports may have had an impact on prices. They note that egg import volumes have increased significantly recently. For example, in January-February 2023, 100 million eggs were imported into Russia, a 20% increase compared to the same period last year.

The increase in egg imports may be due to several factors. First, demand for eggs is growing in Russia. Second, imported eggs are often cheaper than domestic ones. Third, some Russian egg producers have been forced to reduce production due to high feed prices and other production costs.

Consequently, egg imports could have impacted prices on the Russian market. However, the government has not yet provided an official response to this issue. Russian egg producers hope that the government will take measures to protect their interests and prevent further price increases.