Winter Demand and Supply Shortages Drive Prices Up
KARACHI: Egg prices in Karachi have hit record highs, with a dozen eggs now selling for Rs400, nearly matching the Rs450 per kilogram price of chicken meat. The surge comes as winter demand rises and production declines, creating a sharp imbalance between supply and consumption.
According to traders, prices have increased by up to Rs25 per dozen in recent days due to colder weather and reduced output from poultry farms. In the wholesale market, smaller eggs are priced at Rs282 per dozen, regular-sized eggs at Rs364, and double-yolked eggs at Rs500 per dozen.
The rates for desi (local) eggs have also climbed steeply, reaching Rs500 per dozen in Karachi and up to Rs700 per dozen in Peshawar. Vendors report that a crate of eggs now costs up to Rs1,000 more than usual, a spike attributed to limited farm production and transportation challenges during the winter season.
Consumers Struggle as Prices Near Chicken Rates
Residents have expressed frustration at the rising costs, saying that eggs — once an affordable source of protein — have become a luxury. Many families are finding it difficult to include eggs in meals for children or sick family members, particularly during the cold season when demand traditionally rises.
The sudden price surge has narrowed the gap between eggs and chicken, leaving consumers and small vendors concerned about further increases if supply does not stabilize.
Market analysts warn that if feed costs and transportation expenses remain high, egg prices could climb even higher in the coming weeks, putting additional strain on household budgets.
Authorities are being urged to monitor poultry markets and stabilize prices to prevent profiteering amid the ongoing supply crunch.
