Singapore’s authorities are engaging with their Thai counterparts following Thailand’s recent announcement to reduce egg exports by up to 50% until December due to extensive flood-related losses. The Thai government reported that heavy floods in early October severely affected poultry farms in Chachoengsao province, east of Bangkok, resulting in the death of approximately three million hens.
On October 7, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) confirmed that it has been closely monitoring the situation and consulting with local egg importers. According to SFA, Singapore’s egg supply is well diversified, sourcing from over ten countries, including Malaysia, Indonesia, and Ukraine. Thailand accounts for less than 15% of the city-state’s egg imports. The agency also noted that local egg production provides an additional buffer against supply disruptions.
A spokesperson for Thailand’s Department of Internal Trade, Jirawuth Suwanna-arj, highlighted that the government had requested companies to cut their egg exports by 30% to 50% through the end of the year to manage shortages caused by the floods.
Major Singaporean supermarket chains have indicated their preparedness amid these developments. Cold Storage Singapore, which operates brands such as Cold Storage, CS Fresh, and Jasons Deli, stated that it does not source fresh eggs from Thailand. Its procurement involves a broad supplier network across various countries, enabling it to maintain stable supplies without being impacted by export restrictions from any single origin.
Similarly, Sheng Siong reported no reliance on Thai eggs and confirmed that its egg supply and prices remain stable at present. FairPrice Group also indicated that it sources fresh eggs from multiple markets, including local farms, and is actively monitoring the situation. The group said it is exploring alternative supply options to ensure continuity amid potential disruptions.
The SFA underscored that uncertainties in global food supplies are expected to persist and that occasional disruptions may occur. While the government strives to minimize impacts on consumers, it acknowledged that complete mitigation of such disruptions is not always possible. Authorities continue to encourage industry players to diversify sourcing channels and advise consumers to remain flexible in their food choices should supply fluctuations arise.