Will Egg Prices Rise Again? Tariffs Threaten Imported Egg Supply

In recent months, egg prices in the U.S. have finally begun to stabilize after a chaotic 2024, largely caused by one of the worst avian flu outbreaks in the country’s history. With millions of laying hens culled to contain the virus, domestic egg production dropped dramatically, leading to skyrocketing prices and empty grocery shelves. To ease the crisis, the U.S. temporarily increased egg imports from countries like Turkey, Brazil, and South Korea — a move that helped ease pressure on American consumers and food manufacturers.

However, this fragile recovery could soon be under threat.

In April 2025, the Trump administration introduced a sweeping new set of tariffs on imports, including a 10% universal tariff and higher targeted tariffs on specific countries. Among those affected are the very countries supplying processed eggs to the U.S. during the recent shortage.

A Fresh Hit to the Egg Supply Chain?

Egg imports had been crucial in stabilizing supply, especially for processed and powdered egg products used in everything from bakeries to frozen meals. With the new tariffs in place, importers are warning of cost increases that could ripple across the food industry.

Industry leaders argue that these added costs will almost certainly be passed down to consumers. According to a recent report from Reuters, food processors may see their margins shrink, forcing them to raise prices or seek alternative suppliers — neither of which is easy in a global market still catching up from disruptions.

Domestic Production: Still Rebuilding

Meanwhile, U.S. poultry farms are still in recovery mode. Although new flocks are being introduced, rebuilding egg-laying operations takes time. A chicken begins laying eggs at around 5-6 months of age, meaning the effects of restocking are not immediate.

Further compounding the issue is the ongoing risk of another avian flu wave. Spring migration season often leads to new outbreaks as infected wild birds interact with farm flocks. If even a small percentage of farms face another culling order, the market could tighten again quickly.

The Bigger Picture: Food Inflation and Policy Tensions

These tariffs are part of a larger strategy aimed at boosting domestic production and encouraging fairer trade terms. Supporters, particularly in the U.S. cattle industry, argue that tariffs will level the playing field and strengthen local agriculture.

But for sectors still dependent on global supply chains — like the egg industry — this could backfire in the short term. Economists warn that higher food costs, especially for essentials like eggs, could reignite broader inflation concerns that Americans had hoped were easing.

What Can Be Done?

For now, industry groups are urging policymakers to reconsider or provide exemptions for essential food imports. There is also growing interest in expanding domestic egg processing capacity to reduce future reliance on imports.

In the meantime, consumers might notice price fluctuations in baked goods, ready-made meals, and breakfast items. Farmers, processors, and consumers alike will be watching closely to see if this new wave of tariffs cracks open another egg price crisis.