Czech consumers are feeling the pinch as egg prices continue to climb, with a dozen eggs now costing 70 crowns (approximately $3). According to the Czech Statistical Office, prices have jumped nearly 10% since February, and experts warn this upward trend may continue.
The price surge is attributed to multiple factors, with bird flu emerging as a major concern. Gabriela Dlouhá, chairwoman of the Czech-Moravian Poultry Union, points to the global health crisis that has led to the culling of millions of laying hens. In January alone, the EU reported 49 new bird flu outbreaks in poultry farms, followed by 17 more cases in early February 2025.
Adding to the pressure is the looming ban on cage farming in the Czech Republic, set to take effect in 2027. The transition requires the renovation of facilities housing 2.8 million laying hens, with conversion costs estimated at 1,000 crowns per bird. Industry experts note that “welfare eggs” production costs are 10-20% higher than conventional cage farming, with organic eggs commanding even steeper premiums.
However, agricultural analyst Petr Havel offers a glimmer of hope, suggesting that prices might stabilize or even slightly decrease during the summer months when egg production naturally increases. Furthermore, despite concerns about Easter pricing, Havel predicts that significant price hikes are unlikely during the holiday season, with retailers expected to offer promotional discounts.