November 28, 2007

India's egg prices up by 20 percent

Egg prices rose by 20 percent in Delhi in the last two months as winter approaches and demand increases.

Traders said the farm gate price of egg has gone up to Rs 204 per 100 pieces today from Rs 170 on October 1.

However, compared to Monday, there was a fall from Rs 208 per 100 eggs. The rate touched the season's highest of Rs 212 on November 12.

In India's retail outlets, eggs are sold at Rs 30 a dozen as compared to Rs 24 a dozen two weeks ago. Traders foresee egg prices to surge further by Rs 35 a dozen level in the next 1-2 months.

Winter season normally dictates a rise in egg prices which could go up by 10-15 percent, a trader said. 

Harish Juneja, chairman of the National Egg Coordination Committee (NECC) northern region said the increase was due to rise in demand and the high cost of soyameal, an important poultry feed.

Soyameal prices were up by over 75 percent, Juneja said. He further states that farm gate prices of egg may reach Rs 225 this winter.

US$1 = Rs39.67 as of November 28, 2007