Egg prices in the United States have surged to unprecedented levels, prompting an increase in smuggling attempts across the Mexico border. The avian flu, which has been affecting egg-laying hens since 2022, is largely responsible for this spike. With approximately 166 million birds impacted over the past three years, the egg market has faced significant disruptions.
In January, the average cost of a dozen eggs reached $4.95, nearly doubling from the previous year. This price surge, confirmed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, has led to desperate measures by some individuals attempting to bring cheaper eggs from Mexico into the U.S.
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has reported a sharp increase in egg interceptions at various ports of entry. The San Diego Field Office noted a 158% rise in egg seizures since the start of the fiscal year 2024. Travelers are reminded to declare all agricultural items, including eggs, to CBP officers and agriculture specialists to avoid fines of up to $10,000.
Sidney Aki, CBP director of field operations in San Diego, emphasized the importance of public awareness in these efforts:
"It is critical that we keep our traveling public informed to safeguard our agricultural industry while continuing to facilitate legitimate trade and travel."
The CBP’s Laredo, Texas, office also reiterated the prohibition on importing raw eggs and other poultry products:
"The Laredo Field Office along with CBP would like to remind the public that it is prohibited to import raw/fresh eggs, raw chicken, or live birds."
The agency has encountered a 29% increase in detained eggs this year alone. In one notable incident, a man tried to smuggle 24 eggs into the U.S., only for CBP agents to confiscate them. Johnny Williams witnessed this event and commented on the situation:
"One time I got to see how a man who tried to cross 24 eggs to the US and CBP agents confiscated them. I really think it’s an exaggeration with the egg prices in the US."
Amidst these challenges, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced a $1 billion investment plan aimed at stabilizing egg prices. While optimistic about the market's recovery within three to six months, Rollins acknowledged that these efforts:
"Won't erase the problem overnight."
In addition to eggs, CBP agents have seized 64 pounds of methamphetamine in the El Paso area, showcasing the range of issues they face at the border.
