The United States is experiencing a surge in seizures of poultry products, particularly eggs, surpassing the seizures of fentanyl, according to an analysis of official data by The Logic. This increase in egg smuggling is driven by the avian flu outbreak, which has led to rising costs and shortages in the U.S. market. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at various border points, including the northern border with Canada and the border with Mexico, have reported significant increases in egg seizures.
The rise in egg smuggling coincides with President Donald Trump’s trade war with Canada and Mexico, justified by declaring a national emergency on border security related to illegal drugs and migration. CBP statistics show that since October, there have been 3,768 seizures of bird and poultry-related products at U.S. borders, compared to 352 fentanyl seizures in the same period. Bringing fresh eggs into the U.S. is illegal due to concerns about diseases, similar to raw chicken and other unprocessed bird products.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has expressed concerns about the disproportionate focus on egg seizures compared to fentanyl, questioning the trade decisions made by the U.S. government. The avian flu outbreak has led to a shortage of eggs in the U.S., resulting in a significant increase in prices. Americans have been observed crossing the border to Canada to purchase eggs at lower prices, as the average price of eggs in the U.S. has nearly doubled from the previous year.
President Trump has criticized the egg crisis in the U.S. and baselessly blamed former president Joe Biden for the situation. In response to the crisis, the USDA has announced a $1 billion investment to explore temporary import options, improve biosecurity, provide financial relief for farmers, and fund vaccine research. Speculation has arisen about Canada potentially assisting the U.S. with egg imports, but logistical challenges and supply management constraints may limit immediate support.
Despite the potential for Canadian assistance, experts indicate that it would take several months to significantly increase egg exports to the U.S. due to differences in farming practices and regulatory frameworks. Canada’s supply management system for eggs, dairy, and poultry ensures stable prices for producers and consumers, making it challenging to respond to sudden market demands. The U.S. Commerce Secretary has expressed interest in opening up Canada’s dairy and egg markets, but significant changes to the supply management system would be required.
In the meantime, Americans continue to seek out Canadian eggs to address the shortage and high prices in the U.S. market. While some individuals have attempted to smuggle eggs across the border, most are honest about their intentions and face penalties if caught. The ongoing trade tensions and agricultural challenges highlight the complexities of international trade and food supply chains in North America.
Overall, the surge in egg seizures and the resulting egg crisis in the U.S. underscore the importance of food security, trade policies, and agricultural resilience in the face of global challenges such as disease outbreaks and trade disputes. Collaboration and innovation will be essential to address the current egg shortage and ensure a stable food supply for consumers in both countries.
