Russia Faces Rising Chicken Egg Prices Amid Market Adjustments
Forecasts for Russia indicate that chicken egg prices could rise by about 10 percent by the close of 2024, a pace that mirrors general inflation. A respected economist and professor from a leading economics university in Russia commented on reports of shifting production levels, suggesting that what appears as a price uptick is part of a broader adjustment cycle in the industry. This assessment aligns with the current conversation about the sector’s supply dynamics and price sensitivity in the domestic market.
On average, households were paying roughly 129 rubles for a dozen eggs during the winter season. The expert projected that by year’s end the typical price might reach around 141.9 rubles per dozen, reflecting the ongoing balance between supply, demand, and external market factors.
The analyst stressed that the recent changes should not be interpreted as a simple decline in production. In Russia, the poultry sector in meat has achieved a higher level of consolidation than egg production, which means there is inherently more volatility in egg output. While events such as health-related disruptions can influence volumes, the current pattern appears to be a market-driven adjustment rather than a sustained downturn.
According to the economist, egg production had shown an increase in the previous year, followed by a sharp price rise that caused concern among consumers. The shift in consumer behavior led to a temporary demand drop, yet imports played a key role in stabilizing the market. Imported eggs introduced alternative quantities into the domestic supply, and at the start of the new year consumers accepted the new price level, helping demand gradually recover. Domestic producers adjusted their import intake to reflect these changes while maintaining overall market balance.
The analyst noted expectations for a surge in production around major holiday periods such as Easter, followed by possible reductions afterward. Much would depend on the ability to source imports, given that eggs have a limited shelf life and cannot be easily substituted. The expert does not foresee a significant decrease in egg consumption in Russia because eggs remain a relatively affordable source of protein compared to meat.
In recent months, reports from major industry outlets have indicated a continued downward trend in egg production, marking the sixth consecutive monthly decline. Data for the first months of the year showed a year-over-year drop in output, underscoring the ongoing challenges facing the sector. These dynamics reflect a combination of seasonal factors, supply chain adjustments, and shifting consumer demand as the market gradually seeks a new equilibrium.
Overall, the current trajectory suggests that Russia’s egg market is navigating a period of readjustment, with prices likely to reflect both domestic production conditions and international trade influences as the year progresses. The broader takeaway is that eggs remain a more accessible protein source for many households, even as price levels adapt to evolving market realities.