A new global comparison shows that consumers in parts of Asia and emerging markets pay significantly less for a dozen eggs than those in wealthier economies, where prices have surged in recent years due to inflation and supply disruptions.

India tops the list as the cheapest country for eggs, with a dozen large eggs costing approximately $0.91, according to Numbeo’s latest cost-of-living dataset.

Other low-cost countries include:

These figures align with Global Product Prices data, which also shows that many developing economies offer eggs at well under $2 per dozen, making them an accessible source of protein for large populations.

The data points to a clear trend where egg prices are lowest in countries with lower production costs, including cheaper labour, feed and land.

In countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia and Nepal, prices range between $1.48 and $1.52 per dozen, reinforcing Asia’s dominance in low-cost egg production.

Analysts note that eggs remain a staple protein source in these regions, contributing to steady domestic demand and large-scale local production.

According to Global Product Prices , nations such as Switzerland, Australia and New Zealand rank among the most expensive, with prices reaching $6 to $8 per dozen, on the contrary.

Numbeo data similarly shows significant price gaps, with some European and Western markets charging several times more than countries like India or Pakistan.

Egg prices have become a global economic indicator, reflecting broader food inflation trends. In recent years, supply shocks, including avian influenza outbreaks, have pushed prices higher in several major markets.

In the United States , for example, egg prices have surged amid supply shortages and rising costs, illustrating how vulnerable the market is to disruptions.

According to data from Statista , several countries have emerged as leading producers, contributing significantly to the world's egg supply.

Below is an overview of the top 10 egg-producing countries, measured in billions of eggs:​

China : Dominating global egg production, China produces approximately 612.83 billion eggs annually. This substantial output underscores the country's pivotal role in meeting both domestic and international egg demand. ​

Japan : With an annual output of around 406.3 billion eggs, Japan maintains a strong presence in the global egg industry. ​

Indonesia : With an annual production of about 144.0594 billion eggs, Indonesia stands as a significant contributor to the global egg market. ​

India : India produces approximately 142.67 billion eggs each year, reflecting its growing poultry industry and increasing domestic consumption. ​

United States : The U.S. contributes around 109.53 billion eggs annually, supported by a highly industrialised poultry sector. ​

Brazil : As a leading producer in South America, Brazil's egg production reaches approximately 59.94 billion eggs per year. ​

Mexico : Mexico closely follows with an annual production of about 59.84 billion eggs, highlighting its robust poultry industry. ​

Russia : The Russian Federation produces approximately 46.27 billion eggs annually, reflecting its significant role in the European egg market. ​

Pakistan : Pakistan contributes approximately 23.82 billion eggs each year, indicating a growing poultry sector. ​

Turkey : Rounding out the top ten, Turkey produces about 20.64 billion eggs annually, underscoring its role in the regional egg market. ​

These figures highlight the concentration of egg production in specific regions, with Asia , particularly China and Indonesia, playing a dominant role. The substantial outputs from these countries cater to their domestic needs while contributing significantly to global egg supply chains.​