According to data from the National Egg Coordination Committee (NECC) cited in a report by The Economic Times, farm-gate egg prices are currently around ₹7 per egg, while retail prices in several markets range between ₹8.50 and ₹9. Egg prices in India have already increased by around 35-40% over the past year, and they are likely to become even more expensive in the coming months. The price surge comes amid rising costs of onions, sugar and pulses, creating additional pressure on consumer goods.
Estimates by poultry industry players and market experts suggest that egg prices could rise to ₹20-25 per egg this winter. However, such record-high prices are expected to be largely limited to branded, premium and speciality eggs. Consumers are unlikely to have to pay such prices for regular-quality eggs, as the projected record prices apply mainly to certain premium and speciality egg brands.
The cost of producing eggs has risen significantly, with maize emerging as one of the biggest concerns for the poultry industry. The government's 20% ethanol blending policy has increased demand for maize from distilleries. Recent industry estimates suggest that around 37% of India's maize production is now being used for ethanol production. Over the past three years, prices have risen from around ₹14,000 per tonne to nearly ₹26,500 per tonne. According to recent reports citing parliamentary data, India's maize production stands at around 43.4 million tonnes, of which nearly 17 million tonnes is used for ethanol production.
Maize accounts for around 60-70% of poultry feed, meaning the rise in feed costs has directly increased egg production expenses. The higher input costs are subsequently being reflected in egg prices. Besides maize, soybean is another important source of protein in poultry feed, and a sharp increase in soybean meal prices has added further financial pressure on poultry farmers. This dual impact of rising maize and soybean costs is creating significant financial strain on the poultry industry.
Egg consumption in India typically increases during the winter months, which could further pressure prices if demand rises while poultry feed prices remain elevated. However, this does not mean that every egg in India will be sold for ₹20-25. Premium, speciality and branded eggs are different from regular eggs, and retail prices also vary across states and cities. Industry officials expect prices to remain under pressure as winter approaches, particularly if maize continues to be diverted towards ethanol production and poultry feed costs do not decline.
