Producers warn Sri Lankan egg prices could reach Rs 45-47 by December

Sri Lanka's Livestock Producers' Association has warned that egg prices could rise to between Rs 45 and Rs 47 by December, citing higher production costs and an expected increase in demand. The figures are the association's forecast, rather than a newly announced retail price.

Association chairman Ajith Gunasekera said the cost of materials used in egg production had climbed by about 20% over recent months. He put the cost of producing an egg at Rs 32-34, compared with a farm-gate price of Rs 35 and a market price of Rs 40 on November 9.

He said losses were encouraging some farmers to sell laying hens for meat. A reduction in laying flocks could put further pressure on supply just as hotels increase their demand for eggs during December. In the association's assessment, producers may struggle to supply enough eggs to meet that demand.

The association has asked the government to reduce taxes to make eggs more affordable. It says taxes account for Rs 9-11 per egg and argues that foods such as eggs and chicken should be treated as accessible sources of protein. The warning does not establish that prices will inevitably reach the projected range; it sets out the producers' concerns about costs, supply and seasonal demand.