Ministry of Agriculture Boosts Egg Import Quota to Meet Local Demand by 30 Million Eggs for 3 Months

In response to a projected decrease in local egg production, the Ministry of Agriculture has announced a significant increase in the duty-free import quotas for eggs. The new quota, set at 30 million eggs, will be in effect from the end of January to the end of March, aiming to ensure a steady supply to meet the demands of the local market.

This adjustment builds upon the existing quota of 14 million eggs per month, which was introduced at the end of December. An additional 16 million eggs have now been added, and the validity of the expanded quota has been extended until the end of March. The decision is aligned with expectations of a slight dip in local production due to winter weather and concerns related to the current security situation.

Eggs eligible for import into Israel must come from avian flu-free areas, with approved countries including Poland, Ukraine, Spain, Portugal, Bulgaria, and the USA. To assist consumers in making informed choices, imported eggs will be marked with the first letter of their country of origin.

Despite recent months seeing a surplus of eggs, with a record-breaking 220 million eggs collected in October, the ministry stresses that the increased import quota is a precautionary measure to address potential fluctuations in local production. The surplus in October was attributed to favorable conditions for breeding.

It is noteworthy that a duty-free import quota of 50 million eggs was opened at the onset of the war, but it went unused as local production met the entire demand. Importers found it economically unviable to bring in eggs from abroad, particularly considering the lower transportation costs for locally produced eggs. Additionally, high egg prices in Europe further discouraged importation.

The ministry emphasizes that this move is a proactive step to ensure a stable and reliable supply of eggs, emphasizing its commitment to meeting local consumption needs even in challenging times.