Turkey’s poultry industry is currently navigating a complex situation marked by avian influenza outbreaks and shifting export dynamics. Despite challenges posed by the H5N1 strain of avian influenza, which led to Turkey reporting its first outbreak in over a year in November 2024 and the death of 211 birds on a commercial farm in Konya province, the nation has ramped up egg exports to the United States. This surge in exports comes as the U.S. grapples with its own bird flu challenges impacting domestic egg production.
According to Reuters, Turkey began exporting approximately 15,000 tonnes of eggs to the United States starting in February 2025, with shipments expected to continue until July, potentially generating around $26 million in export revenue. This development highlights Turkey’s ability to capitalize on the supply gaps created by the avian influenza outbreaks in the U.S.
Interestingly, despite the reduction in the American turkey flock to its smallest size since 1985 due to avian influenza, turkey prices have remained relatively stable, primarily due to decreased overall demand. AviNews reported that the average price of a 16-pound turkey decreased by 6% in 2024 compared to the previous year. This price stability presents a paradox, given the supply constraints caused by the outbreaks.
In other related news, in early February 2025, approximately twenty wild turkeys were found dead in Edgartown, Massachusetts, with officials suspecting avian influenza as the cause. Meanwhile, in Alabama, turkey hunting season is underway, with most turkeys harvested during the first week of the season, and hunters are seeing early success.
The situation in Turkey illustrates the intricate balance between disease management, export opportunities, and domestic market dynamics in the poultry industry. The country’s ability to increase egg exports despite internal outbreaks underscores its resilience and strategic positioning in the global market.
