In recent news from Epoch Times on March 15, 2025, the price of eggs in the United States has skyrocketed, prompting many people to turn to Mexico or even Canada to buy cheaper eggs to save on expenses. However, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits such “imports” as uninspected eggs may potentially carry diseases.
According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, data from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) shows that cases of illegally bringing eggs into the country have increased by 36% compared to the same period last year. In certain border regions of Texas, the increase has reached 54%, while in San Diego, the cases have doubled.
“This is mainly due to the price difference,” said CBP spokesperson Roger Maier. In January, there were 90 cases of individuals caught illegally carrying eggs at the El Paso border. “The price of eggs in Mexico is only one-third of the price in the U.S.”
Data from the U.S. Department of Labor shows that in January, the average price of large Grade A eggs in the U.S. reached $5.90 per dozen, doubling from $3 last year, with some markets even exceeding $10. In contrast, egg prices in Mexico are generally below $2 per dozen.
First-time offenders of egg smuggling face a fine of $300. In El Paso, CBP officials have issued civil penalties in the past week for 16 cases of illegal agricultural products entering the country, some of which involved eggs.
All illegally imported eggs are destroyed according to established procedures.
The primary reason for the rise in egg prices is the avian flu epidemic, which has resulted in a significant decrease in the number of egg-laying hens. However, the USDA states that with the easing of the epidemic, supply and wholesale prices have started to stabilize.
The Trump administration is addressing this issue, with the Department of Justice launching an investigation to determine if the surge in egg prices involves major egg producers manipulating prices or restricting supply.
Last month, the USDA announced a plan to invest up to $1 billion to stabilize egg prices, with $500 million allocated for improving biosecurity measures on egg farms to prevent disease transmission.
Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins stated that the U.S. will consider increasing inspected imports of eggs. Currently, Turkey has begun exporting approximately 16,000 tons of eggs to the United States.