Egg Export Quota Increased to 5,000 Tons

Egg Export Quota Increased to 5,000 Tons

YUM-BİR President İbrahim Afyon stated that despite Türkiye dropping to fifth place in egg exports, the increase in the export quota has provided significant relief to producers.

Afyon explained that during the period known as the “May slump”—when consumption decreases and prices fall—raising the egg export quota to 5,000 tons has allowed producers to breathe again. This period is characterized by a seasonal decline in egg consumption due to changing breakfast habits compared to winter months, along with price drops caused by the rejuvenation of poultry flocks.

This year, the sector entered the “May slump” earlier than usual, putting producers under pressure. However, the increase in export quotas has helped ease the situation.

Afyon noted that Türkiye, which ranks among the top 10 egg producers globally, had previously risen to second place in exports but has recently fallen to fifth due to various factors. He emphasized:
“We can confidently say that our production is sufficient for both exports and the domestic market.”

“May Slump” Started Early This Year

Afyon stated that egg producers face a recurring loss period each year known as the “May slump,” which began earlier this year. He explained that when consumption declines and production increases, intermediaries and retailers tend to avoid stocking eggs due to expectations of falling prices. As a result, producers are often forced to sell products nearing expiration at lower prices.

“We have two ways to market our products before their expiration date: exports and the domestic market,” he added.

Afyon also pointed out that export restrictions had previously been implemented to maintain price stability, reducing quotas from 10,000 tons per month to 5,000 tons, and eventually down to 1,000 tons.

He continued:
“With production efficiency currently exceeding 120%, increasing the restricted monthly export quota from 1,000 tons to 5,000 tons has provided relief to our producers. We thank our government for addressing the issue. The flexibility has been increased in a controlled manner. However, if prices rise uncontrollably, this temporary allowance may be tightened again. Therefore, we will continue to increase our investments to protect production, as we have committed to the government.”

“Our Priority is the Domestic Market and Price Stability”

Afyon emphasized that exporting 5,000 tons of eggs is not a significant volume for Türkiye:
“5,000 tons corresponds to approximately 80 million eggs, which equals Türkiye’s daily production. There should be no perception that this will impact domestic prices, as our primary priority is the domestic market and price stability.”

Egg Exports to the European Union

Afyon also highlighted logistical challenges caused by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, which have negatively affected exports to Gulf countries, traditionally Türkiye’s largest market.

However, he noted that demand from the European Union has increased over the past three months:
“We are now exporting eggs even to the European Union. While we currently export to 39 countries, we maintain continuous exports to 19 countries. Despite quota limitations, being able to meet the needs of these 19 countries demonstrates that we are among the leading producers globally.”

He also added that exports of “small-sized” eggs (under 53 grams), which have limited demand in the domestic market, have now been fully liberalized, expressing appreciation for this decision.

News Source : AA, Sondakika, AA Afyon