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Hatching egg market soars
The global hatching egg market is experiencing a significant boom in 2025, driven by rising demand, tight supply chains, and historically high prices.
The global hatching egg market is experiencing a significant boom in 2025, driven by rising demand, tight supply chains, and historically high prices. According to recent data, the price of hatching eggs has surged to unprecedented levels, with Dutch poultry farmers reporting prices nearing €0.30 per egg, up from just €0.21 at the beginning of 2024.
This surge is largely attributed to a combination of factors. First, the poultry industry is witnessing a strong rebound in demand for broiler chickens, particularly in Asia and Latin America, where consumption of poultry meat continues to rise. As a result, hatcheries are ramping up production to meet the growing need for day-old chicks.
Second, supply constraints have played a critical role. The lingering effects of avian influenza outbreaks in 2024 severely impacted layer and broiler flocks across Europe and North America, reducing the number of viable hatching eggs available in the market. Although recovery efforts are underway, the supply chain remains tight, pushing prices upward.
In the United States, the USDA reports that hatching egg production in February 2025 totaled 1.18 billion, with 1.09 billion being broiler-type and 93.4 million egg-type. While this represents a stable output, it is not enough to offset the global demand surge. Additionally, the number of layers producing hatching eggs has declined, further tightening supply.
Market analysts also point to increased exports of hatching eggs from major producers like the U.S. and the Netherlands, which are capitalizing on high international prices. This export activity is contributing to domestic shortages and price inflation in local markets.
Looking ahead, the outlook remains bullish. Industry experts predict continued strong demand through the remainder of 2025, especially as developing countries invest in expanding their poultry sectors. However, the market remains vulnerable to disease outbreaks and feed cost volatility, which could impact future production levels.
In conclusion, the hatching egg market is currently thriving, fueled by robust demand, limited supply, and favorable export conditions. While this presents opportunities for producers, it also poses challenges for maintaining stable and affordable poultry production worldwide.