Egg Prices Rise Across India as Poultry Feed Costs Continue to Climb

Consumers across India are paying more for eggs as prices continue to climb in several markets. In many cities, a single egg is now selling for between Rs 8.50 and Rs 9. Poultry industry representatives say the sharp rise is mainly driven by higher feed costs, although prices could ease slightly by the end of July if demand declines.

The increase in production costs has become a major challenge for poultry farmers. Key feed ingredients such as maize, soybean meal and essential amino acids have become significantly more expensive over the past few months. Industry experts say disruptions in global supply chains and higher import costs have contributed to the surge in feed prices.

According to industry estimates, maize, which accounts for more than half of poultry feed, has become over 35 percent more expensive since March. Soybean meal, another important ingredient, has recorded an increase of more than 60 percent during the same period. The cost of essential amino acids used in poultry feed has also risen sharply, placing additional pressure on producers.

Data from the National Egg Coordination Committee shows that the ex farm price of eggs in Hyderabad has increased by around 15 percent in the past month and nearly 40 percent compared with the same period last year. Poultry companies say these rising input costs are directly influencing retail egg prices across the country.

Industry experts point out that maize demand has expanded beyond the poultry sector. Ethanol manufacturers are now purchasing large quantities of maize, reducing overall availability and pushing prices higher. At the same time, concerns over uneven monsoon rainfall have raised fears about lower crop production during the current agricultural season, adding further uncertainty to feed supplies.

Soybean production also declined significantly last year, with estimates suggesting output fell by around 20 percent. If rainfall remains below normal this season, experts warn that soybean supplies could tighten further, leading to another increase in feed costs and poultry prices.

The impact is not limited to eggs. Prolonged heat during the summer months reduced broiler chicken production, resulting in higher chicken prices across many cities. Retail chicken is now selling between Rs 260 and Rs 300 per kilogram in several markets, with prices crossing Rs 300 per kilogram in parts of Hyderabad.

Despite the current surge, the poultry industry remains hopeful that prices may soften toward the end of July. Demand for eggs and meat traditionally declines in several northern states during the Shravan month due to religious practices. Lower consumption could help stabilize prices, although industry leaders caution that continued pressure on feed costs and an uncertain monsoon could keep both egg and chicken prices elevated in the coming months.