Finnish egg exports rise by over 25% as domestic shortages persist

More than a quarter of Finland’s domestically produced eggs are now being exported, contributing to ongoing shortages in supermarkets, according to the Central Union of Agricultural Producers and Forest Owners (MTK).

MTK specialist Mari Lukkariniemi told public broadcaster Yle that export demand has surged because prices in other European markets—such as Germany—can exceed €1 per kilogram more than what Finnish retailers are willing to pay.

“Finnish retailers have not prepared to pay the market price for eggs,” Lukkariniemi said, dismissing other explanations for the shortage, including increased demand or the routine replacement of laying hens every 18 months.

She noted that Finland produces around 80 million kilograms of eggs annually—about 20% more than domestic consumption requires—with free-range egg production alone exceeding demand for shelled eggs. Official statistics also show no rise in consumption between December and February, Lukkariniemi added.

Retail chains have previously cited higher demand and flock renewal cycles as reasons for the shortage.