The avian flu is taking a heavy toll on US poultry farms. At least 30 million birds have been culled, resulting in skyrocketing egg prices.
Producers in Poland and Lithuania said they had received questions on how many eggs they could export to the US market.
"Back in February, the American embassy in Warsaw asked our organization whether Poland would be interested in exporting eggs to the US market," said Katarzyna Gawrońska, director of the National Chamber of Poultry and Feed Producers. She added that the embassy had asked “what volumes Poland would be willing to export.”
A similar request has also been sent to producers in neighboring Lithuania. "Our association was approached by the American embassy several weeks ago to inquire about the possibility of exporting eggs from Lithuania to the United States," stated Gytis Kauzonas, head of the Lithuanian Poultry Association.
However, both countries have highlighted obstacles that could hinder potential exports to the US market.
"It's difficult for us to make any firm statements about volumes because the situation on both the Polish and European markets is challenging as well," said Gawrońska.
"There is a shortage of eggs in many countries," she said, adding, "The key question is what financial conditions will be offered by Americans."
SOURCE: AFP
(aj)