New Top Priority For Customs Agencies: Smuggled Eggs

Customs agents seize more smuggled eggs than fentanyl, marking a surprising shift in border enforcement focus.

Quick Takes

90 people caught smuggling eggs from Mexico since January
CBP issued over $4,000 in penalties related to egg smuggling
Egg prices rose due to bird flu, sparking increased smuggling
3,768 bird and poultry product seizures far surpass fentanyl

Surge in Egg Trafficking

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents in Texas reported stopping over 90 individuals attempting to smuggle eggs from Mexico since January. This marks a shift in enforcement priorities, previously dominated by concerns over fentanyl trafficking. The surge in egg smuggling is linked to rising egg prices—some reaching $10 per dozen—prompted by avian flu outbreaks, which led to supply shortages and panic buying.

In El Paso, Texas, CBP issued 16 civil penalties totaling nearly $4,000 against individuals smuggling raw eggs and other prohibited products. Importing raw eggs from Mexico is illegal due to the risk of diseases like Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (bird flu) and Virulent Newcastle disease, highlighting the public health rationale behind these efforts.

Trade Dynamics & Enforcement

Since October, border agents have confiscated 3,768 bird and poultry-related products, starkly contrasting with the 352 fentanyl seizures during the same period. There’s been a 36% rise in egg smuggling attempts compared to last year, with notable increases at the Detroit and San Diego field offices.

“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.

Eggs are being smuggled at a higher rate than fentanyl, a trend possibly fueled by trade tensions. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has questioned the connection between trade decisions and the current focus on combating fentanyl.

Economic and Health Implications

With the Trump administration prioritizing the rebuilding of a national stockpile of avian flu vaccines, there’s hope for mitigating economic strains and future outbreaks. Researchers assert that, “vaccination would potentially result in fewer outbreaks and lessen the financial impact on the government and both the public and private sectors.”

CBP’s critical role lies in maintaining border security, ensuring public safety by separating law-abiding individuals from those endangering public health with smuggled goods.