A New Challenge Arises For Customs Enforcement: Egg Smuggling

Two uniformed officers standing outdoors near a fence.

U.S. Customs officials face an unprecedented challenge as egg smuggling surpasses drug seizures at the borders, demanding a recalibration of enforcement priorities.

Key Takeaways

U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents in Texas have intercepted over 90 attempts to smuggle eggs across the border since January.
The sudden rise in egg smuggling correlates with record-high egg prices and shortages due to bird flu outbreaks.
Eggs are prohibited for import due to the risk of avian diseases such as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza.
CBP has issued thousands of dollars in civil penalties for illegal egg smuggling while managing other illegal activities at the border.
The Trump administration’s trade and border security measures are said to aggravate the smuggling crisis.

CBP Cracks Down on Increasing Egg Smuggling

In recent months, CBP agents in Texas reported intercepting at least 90 cases of egg smuggling, reflecting shifting enforcement concerns. The increase in egg smuggling attempts aligns with skyrocketing egg prices caused by bird flu outbreaks. Customs authorities are adjusting their strategies to manage this emerging issue, as egg imports from Mexico pose significant risks due to the spread of avian diseases.

This surge has triggered 16 civil penalties, totaling around $4,000, for the illegal transport of raw eggs across borders. The enforcement tactics focus on potential health threats, such as the spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, through these illicit imports.

The Border Crisis: More Eggs Than Fentanyl

Remarkably, U.S. border officials have seized more illegal egg shipments than fentanyl in the past year. This startling revelation underscores the evolving nature of border challenges for CBP, traditionally centered on combating drug trafficking. Since October, 3,768 seizures involved poultry-related products versus 352 instances of fentanyl.

“CBP officers remain steadfast in their efforts to execute their primary homeland security mission,” said director of field operations at U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Hector Mancha.

Increased attempts—35% in Detroit and 158% in San Diego—highlight a worrying trend demanding attention. These seizures fall under broader border security measures, with factors like trade tensions and the Trump administration’s policies contributing to this unusual crisis.

Economic Factors Driving the Crisis

Egg prices reached record highs amid widespread avian flu, exacerbating smuggling interest. The price inflation and reduced availability drive panic buying, as emphasized by expert Saloni Vastani: “Egg prices are going up because of the avian flu, but that’s driving people to buy more eggs than they usually do because they’re anticipating higher prices and reduced grocery store supply.”

With vaccine development underway, reducing this spiraling crisis remains a priority. At the same time, politicians and consumers call for regulatory scrutiny to ensure egg price stability, as the Department of Justice investigates alleged price manipulation among egg producers.