PM Browne Calls on “Egg Cartel” to Reverse Increase or Face Open Market
Prime Minister Gaston Browne is calling on the Layer Farmers Association to reverse a decision to increase the prices of eggs on the island.
“The egg cartel needs to retreat and end their opportunistic wickedness. Have some empathy for the poor and vulnerable,” Browne wrote on his social media page.
The prices of white and brown eggs have recently been increased in Antigua and Barbuda.
According to the new adjustments announced, starting from September 16, 2024, the price for a dozen eggs will move from $12.00 to $14.00. In addition, the case of eggs will now be available at $420.00, increasing from the previous price of $360.00.
The Antigua and Barbuda Layer Farmers Association attributed the sudden price increase to the escalating input costs, which they stated they refused to absorb.
However, PM Browne tells Antigua.news that if they fail to “retreat,” the government will consider opening up the egg market to allow supermarkets to import eggs with the aim of driving down the price.
This initiative is proposed to counteract the “egg cartel’s opportunistic price increases, which could potentially drive the retail price of eggs to $18-19” he said
The cost of eggs last went up in July 2022. In the previous changes, the bulk price of white and brown eggs was increased to $12 per dozen or $360 per case.
At that time, the association also emphasized that the increase was due to the worrying surge in input costs, especially feed.
This story was first published by Antigua News on September 16, 2024: antigua.news/2024/09/16/pm-browne-calls-on-egg-cartel-to-reverse-increase-or-face-open-market. © 2024 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
About the author
The Editorial Staff refers to all reporters employed by Antigua.news. When an article is not an original creation of Antigua.news—such as when it is based on a press release, other media articles, letters to the editor, or court decisions—one of our staff members is responsible for overseeing its publication.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
Antigua and Barbuda Ranked Seventh in Condé Nast Traveler’s Regional Island Awards
Readers place the twin-island destination among their favourites in the Caribbean and Atlantic in the 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Electric Vehicle Fleet En Route to Antigua for CHOGM Under Octopus Energy Partnership
Vehicles will transport Commonwealth leaders and delegates, marking the first practical delivery under the country’s clean-energy agreement.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
BREAKING:Fernandez Elected CTO Chairman as Antigua and Barbuda Returns to Regional Tourism Leadership
Antigua and Barbuda takes the chairmanship for the first time in more than 15 years, with connectivity, climate resilience and leadership opportunities among Fernandez’s priorities
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Hundreds Join CIBC Walk for the Cure as Participation Hits Record High
The 15th annual event brought together cancer survivors, families and supporters to raise awareness and funds for cancer care.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Comments (4)
Faithful national #1 September 16, 2024, 10:19 AM
Antiguan Patriot. September 16, 2024, 5:20 PM
AAB September 16, 2024, 5:02 PM
Sir, when you cast THREATS …… BE CAREFUL…… Ask Yourself “Am I being Fair when I say these things and Examine My OWN …..Conscience……. May God Have MERCY ON ALL OF US!!!!!!
Just called it as I see it September 16, 2024, 8:12 PM