HS Code:
Egg yolks, classified under HS Code 040811 (dried) and 040819 (other than dried), are a significant category in the global food trade, primarily used in food processing industries for products like mayonnaise, baked goods, and confectionery. This category includes both fresh and preserved egg yolks, catering to industrial and consumer demands. The trade of egg yolks is influenced by factors such as poultry production levels, food safety regulations, and consumer preferences for processed foods.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$320 million USD
26.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$210 million USD
17.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$110 million USD
9.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$90 million USD
7.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
8.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
35% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Growing demand for processed egg products
Increased trade volume as food manufacturers in Asia and Europe seek egg yolks for convenience foods and industrial baking, driving export growth from major producers like the Netherlands and the US.
2021-2022
Shift towards cage-free and organic egg production
Higher production costs for exporters due to stricter animal welfare regulations in the EU and North America, leading to premium pricing in markets valuing sustainable practices.
2020-2022
Impact of avian influenza outbreaks
Temporary trade bans and supply chain disruptions in key exporting countries like the US and France, causing price volatility and shifts in market share to unaffected regions.
2022
The European Union introduced stricter food safety and labeling requirements for egg yolk imports to ensure traceability and compliance with animal welfare standards.
March 2023
Non-EU exporters face higher compliance costs, potentially reducing competitiveness of smaller suppliers while benefiting large, established exporters like the US.
As part of ongoing trade negotiations, China lifted certain restrictions on US poultry products, including egg yolks, following avian influenza-related bans.
January 2023
Increased market access for US exporters, potentially boosting trade volume by 10-15% to one of the largest consumer markets in Asia.
Significant outbreaks in parts of Europe and North America led to temporary export bans and reduced supply of egg yolks in the global market.
Late 2022
Short-term price increases and supply chain disruptions, with buyers turning to alternative suppliers in unaffected regions like South America.