Government threatens to import eggs to curb rising prices

In response to a surge of consumer complaints, Trade, Commerce, and Food Security Minister Nalin Fernando announced today that the Ministry is prepared to take decisive action to import eggs if local producers do not lower their prices soon.

Minister Fernando highlighted that the retail price of eggs has spiked again recently, and the Ministry has noted that these increased profits are not being passed on to consumers.

"The market price of eggs has been rising, with a significant increase observed over the past two weeks," the Minister stated.

Previously, the government imported eggs to address a shortage in the country. However, imports were halted to benefit local producers, who received concessions on production costs, including ingredients.

"Given the current situation, the government may have to make a tough decision to either force a reduction in egg prices or resume imports. If imports are resumed, they will continue until December 31," Minister Fernando warned.

He added that local producers have been given a few more days to decide on reducing egg prices or face the resumption of imports. The Trade Ministry and the Agriculture Ministry are aware of the actual production cost of an egg.

"If local producers cannot lower the prices, the Ministry will proceed with importing eggs again," Minister Fernando asserted.