Kazakhstan Introduces Temporary Ban on Egg Imports: Supporting Local Producers is a Priority

Starting from April 4, 2025, the Republic of Kazakhstan has enforced a temporary ban on the import of fresh chicken eggs from abroad. This decision is formalized by Order No. 101 of the Minister of Agriculture, which restricts egg imports for a period of six months.

The measure applies to products classified under HS Code 040721 and covers all means of transportation, including imports from both third countries and member states of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). However, the restrictions do not affect the transit of eggs through the territory of Kazakhstan. Additionally, movement of goods between EAEU countries through the Republic is permitted, which helps maintain the logistics chains within the Union.

Purpose of the Ban: Protecting the Domestic Market
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, the restrictions aim to support domestic poultry farms during the spring and summer period. This is traditionally a time of reduced demand for eggs in the market. The population’s needs are fully met by local industrial production and household farming, increasing competition and leading to price declines.
When egg prices fall below production cost, the profitability of enterprises is at risk. Another complicating factor is the shortened shelf life of eggs during warmer seasons. At the same time, production volumes remain unchanged due to the technological characteristics of the industry, which often leads to excess stockpiling.

Decision by the Interdepartmental Commission
The issue of introducing temporary measures was raised at a meeting of the Interdepartmental Commission on Foreign Trade Policy and Participation in International Economic Organizations. Participants concluded that limiting imports would help stabilize the situation for domestic producers and protect the local market from oversupply of foreign products. The result was the approval of the ban, which has now officially taken effect.