Egg Prices in Ukraine May Exceed 90 UAH Before Easter

In Ukraine, there is a rapid increase in egg prices that began at the start of April. The average cost of a dozen eggs has already reached 76.4 UAH, but experts do not rule out that this may not be the limit. Prices are expected to rise by at least 10% in the coming weeks. The reasons for this price increase are linked to objective factors as well as possible artificial manipulations.

This is reported by AgroReview

Seasonal Demand and Inflation

The price increase occurs against the backdrop of annual seasonal demand before Easter, inflation, and the rising costs of feed, energy, and logistics. Analysts emphasize that over the past year, the price of eggs has risen by 44.7%, and in the last month, prices have gone up again. For example, the popular brand “Kvotchka” increased by almost 14 UAH per dozen from February to March.

Concerns of the Antimonopoly Committee

Representatives of agricultural organizations note that about 70% of the cost of eggs consists of compound feeds, which have also become scarce and expensive. However, it is possible that the price increase is related to speculation. In the first quarter of this year, Ukraine exported nearly half a billion eggs—twice as many as last year. The Antimonopoly Committee of Ukraine (AMCU) has warned the ten largest producers against creating an artificial shortage in the domestic market and has been investigating the situation for several years, suspecting the existence of a conspiracy. According to experts, the companies Avangard, Ovostar Union, and Yednist’ Group control more than half of the market.

Despite numerous investigations, no significant consequences for the business have been observed. Recently, in 2023, companies received a fine of 10.7 million UAH, which they immediately paid without contesting. This raises public concerns that it may indicate the actual impunity of the players in the “egg cartel.”

According to analysts, prices may rise by another 10% or more before Easter, but a decrease of 20–30% is expected in May due to a seasonal surplus of products from private farms. Meanwhile, Ukrainians continue to buy eggs at prices ranging from 80 to 100 UAH per dozen, while large producers continue to dictate the market without much fear of the AMCU.