Egg demand and prices rise as election nears

January 25, 2026, 01:32:42 PM |

KATHMANDU: Demand for eggs has increased sharply as the House of Representatives election approaches, pushing prices upward across the domestic market. In response to rising demand and tightening supply, the Nepal Layers Poultry Farmers’ Association has raised farm-gate prices with effect from today.

Under the revised rates, the farm price of large eggs has been fixed at Rs 495 per crate (30 pieces), up by Rs 30 from the previous rate of Rs 465. Similarly, the farm price of medium-sized eggs has been increased to Rs 475 per crate from Rs 445.

The current price hike follows a period of volatility in the egg market. In Mangsir, egg prices had reached an all-time high, with large eggs selling at Rs 565 per crate and medium eggs at Rs 550 per crate at the farm level.

Association President Binod Pokharel said the price increase has been driven primarily by the election atmosphere across the country and tighter controls along border areas during the election period, which have disrupted supply flows.

He added that a decline in the number of egg-laying hens has reduced overall production, while the reopening of previously closed schools has boosted consumption, contributing to a gradual tightening of supply-demand conditions.

According to the association, the production cost of an egg stands at Rs 19.12 per piece. Based on this, the cost price for farmers reaches approximately Rs 574.06 per crate, which remains higher than the current farm-gate selling price.

Farmers had earlier expressed frustration after prices fell despite being close to production costs, resulting in losses. With the latest revision, producers are hopeful of further price adjustments in line with market conditions. The association said it continues to set indicative support prices based on prevailing demand, supply, and cost structures in the market.

Fiscal Nepal |

Sunday January 25, 2026, 01:32:42 PM |