13 hours ago
Namakkal eggs exported to the United States for first time
For the first time, eggs from Namakkal have been exported to the United States. Depending on the feedback from the U.S. market, the volume of exports may increase further.
Known as the 'Egg Town' of India, Namakkal is home to over 1,500 poultry farms, collectively producing around 7 crore (70 million) eggs per day. These eggs are primarily distributed to States such as Kerala, Karnataka, and Puducherry, and are also supplied to schools in Tamil Nadu under the noon meal scheme.
While Tamil Nadu is the second-largest egg producer in India—after Andhra Pradesh—it ranks first in the production of export-quality table eggs (weighing 52–55 grams), accounting for 95% of the country's total table egg exports. Dubai, Bahrain, Qatar, and Oman are regular importers of Namakkal eggs.
However, due to trade policies, stringent certification procedures, and quality standards, exports to the United States had not been possible until now. Recently, due to a shortage caused by bird flu in the U.S., a breakthrough was achieved. Namakkal eggs were cleared for export to the American market.
According to C. Panneerselvam, president of the Tamil Nadu Egg Exporters Association, discussions were held with a U.S.-based company, and approval for the export was granted about 20 days ago. Following the approval, one crore (10 million) eggs were shipped in 20 air-conditioned containers from Thoothukudi port. The eggs, each weighing 55 grams, are expected to reach the U.S. next week.
'Based on consumer feedback from the U.S., further negotiations will be held regarding continued exports,' Mr. Panneerselvam said. He added increased exports could help stabilise egg prices in the domestic market.
