September 2, 2004

 

 

Australian, New Zealand Eggs Not Taking Off In Singapore

 

Singapore has imported eggs from Australia and New Zealand since the poultry ban on Malaysia was imposed on August 18.

 

Australian and New Zealand eggs account for less than one percent of market consumption. However, eggs from these two countries have not taken off because of the high costs.

 

Eggs from Australia and New Zealand cost 35 cents or more per egg. Thus there is not much demand for the more expensive eggs.

 

However, Singapore is not able to import eggs from neighbouring ASEAN countries like Indonesia and Thailand as most nations are affected by the bird flu.

 

Malaysia had supplied 70 percent of Singapore's eggs. Prices have risen since the current supply is not able to meet demand.

 

The supply of eggs has fallen nearly 70 percent.

 

Singapore has implemented comprehensive measures to keep bird flu out of the country.

 

There are stringent checks on all imports, inspections at the slaughterhouses as well as strict bio-safety measures at local farms.

 

There are contingency plans even if the virus slips into the nation.

 

Singapore's accreditation scheme is so detailed that authorities can trace and recall poultry even after it has reached the market.