Kathmandu. The price of eggs has increased due to decrease in production and increase in demand. The Layers Poultry Farmers’ Association has increased the price of eggs with effect from today (April 1).

As per the increased price, the farm price of one crate (30 eggs) has reached Rs 465. Earlier, the price of eggs which was sold at Rs 450 per crate has increased by Rs 15. Similarly, the farm price of medium eggs has been set at Rs 415. Prior to this, this egg was sold at Rs 400.

The price of eggs had reached an all-time high in November. At that time, a large egg was sold at Rs 565 per crate. The rate of medium was Rs 550.

Association President Binod Pokharel said that the production has decreased due to diseases seen in chickens and increasing heat. The demand for eggs has increased due to the increase in tourism activities since the eve of the New Year. The import of eggs from outside has decreased as the border has been tightened. Due to these reasons, the demand for eggs has increased and the production has decreased. However, the cost price has not been reached.

The cost of production of eggs is Rs 19.12 per egg. This calculates the cost price of farmers to Rs 574 per crate. Farmers are disappointed with the fall in egg prices as the cost of living is nearing the end. Farmers are hoping that the price will increase. The association fixes the support price of eggs according to the market situation. Pokharel said that the price of eggs is expected to go up to the cost price.