Egg suppliers in Koforidua have joined growing calls for government intervention to resolve a trade impasse with Burkina Faso, which has halted egg exports for more than two months and triggered a glut on the domestic market.
The appeal follows concerns raised by the Poultry Farmers, Egg Sellers and Exporters Association at a recent press conference in Dormaa Ahenkro, one of Ghana’s leading egg-producing centres, where stakeholders warned of mounting losses due to restricted cross-border trade.
The suspension is reportedly linked to health concerns stemming from Ghana’s earlier bird flu outbreak, which industry players say has not been conclusively addressed through an official government white paper, leaving the restrictions in place.
The disruption has led to a sharp oversupply of eggs locally, putting pressure on farmers, traders and distributors, many of whom are struggling to avoid losses as perishable stock piles up.
An egg supplier at the Koforidua Central Market, Abena Amankwaa, said the absence of export markets had significantly reduced demand, forcing sellers to lower prices in a bid to prevent spoilage.
“The persistence of excess supply can compel me to sell crates of eggs at far lesser prices,” she said.
She indicated that a crate of eggs currently sells for between GH¢50 and GH¢55, but warned that prices could decline further if the situation persists.
While suppliers face financial strain, some consumers and small businesses are benefitting from the reduced prices.
A baker, Rebecca Gyan, said the development had enabled her to purchase eggs in bulk at lower cost, improving her production.
“My baked goods will be enriched, improving both the taste and quality of my products,” she said.
Household consumers have also welcomed the price drop, noting that it allows families to include more eggs in their diets, potentially boosting protein intake.
However, industry players warn that the current situation is unsustainable and have renewed calls for urgent diplomatic engagement between Ghana and Burkina Faso to restore trade flows and stabilise the market.
Source:
www.graphic.com.gh