ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) – In a significant shift in agricultural policy, Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced the liberalization of the egg market in Antigua and Barbuda. This decision comes just days after the Antigua and Barbuda Layer Farmers Association (ABLFA) announced an increase in egg prices, prompting the government to intervene.
Prime Minister Browne, in a statement on his Facebook page, criticized the ABLFA for their unilateral decision to raise the price of both white and brown eggs. As of last Monday, the cost per dozen eggs rose from EC$12.00 (approximately US$0.37) to EC$14.00, leading to a wholesale price increase of EC$420.00 per case, up from EC$360.00. The ABLFA cited factors such as heat stress and rising operational costs as reasons for the price hike.
Browne emphasized the potential impact of these price increases on consumers, particularly vulnerable populations. He noted that the retail price of eggs could soar to EC$18-19 per dozen, making a key source of protein unaffordable for many. He warned of the dangers of an emerging “egg cartel” that unjustifiably inflates prices, stating, “If we do not stop this developing egg cartel, we will be faced with other frivolous increases in the near future.”
As part of the liberalization, the government will eliminate the 40 percent duties and taxes on imported eggs, as well as import permits, and will discontinue subsidies to local poultry farmers. “Our government subsidies are designed to drive down costs to keep egg prices affordable for all,” Browne stated, underscoring the intention to protect consumers rather than inflate farmers’ profits.
To further regulate the poultry industry, a Poultry Development Board will be established. This board will oversee egg pricing and monitor sanitary conditions on farms to reduce the risk of salmonella and other microbial diseases. Farms failing to meet these standards will be closed to safeguard public health.
In response to the government’s announcement, ABLFA General Secretary Valerie Edwards denied any agreement to halt the price increase, stating that discussions with the government were still ongoing. The Cabinet had previously invited ABLFA representatives to address the issue of the intended price increase, highlighting that the cost of eggs in Antigua and Barbuda was already higher than in neighboring islands, despite similar climate conditions.
Following a Cabinet meeting, it was agreed to conduct a study within the next 60 days to assess the actual costs incurred by farmers in producing a dozen eggs. The establishment of the Poultry Board will include members from various sectors, including the Ministry of Agriculture and veterinary officials, to ensure fair pricing for consumers.
Browne’s administration is taking proactive measures to prevent any exploitation of consumers through price manipulation in the egg market, aiming for a more transparent and equitable system in the poultry industry.
