Egg glut in Ghana as Burkina Faso export ban disrupts trade

Egg suppliers in Koforidua in the Eastern Region are calling on government to urgently engage Burkina Faso over a prolonged trade suspension that has halted egg exports for more than two months, creating a surplus on the local market.

The appeal follows concerns raised by the Poultry Farmers, Egg Sellers, and Exporters Association at a recent press conference in Dormaa Ahenkro, a key poultry production hub. The group warned that border restrictions are blocking exports and worsening pressure on local producers.

Industry stakeholders say the suspension is linked to health concerns associated with Ghana’s past bird flu outbreak. They argue, however, that the issue has not been formally clarified through an official government white paper, leaving uncertainty in trade relations.

The situation has led to a glut in the domestic market, with farmers, traders, and suppliers struggling to sell a highly perishable product before it spoils.

An egg supplier at the Koforidua Central Market, Abena Amankwaa, said the oversupply is forcing sellers to reduce prices significantly.

“The persistence of excess supply can compel me to sell crates of eggs at far lesser prices,” she told the Ghana News Agency, noting that a crate currently sells between GH₵50 and GH₵55 but could fall further if the situation persists.

While producers are facing losses, some consumers and small businesses say the price drop has provided short-term relief.

A baker, Rebecca Gyan, said the lower prices have allowed her to purchase eggs in larger quantities, improving the quality and affordability of her baked products.

Household consumers have also welcomed the reduced prices, saying it could help improve protein intake for families.

However, industry players are urging swift diplomatic intervention to resolve the trade impasse, warning that prolonged restrictions could lead to deeper financial losses and increased waste across the value chain.