Songkhla farmer Boonserm Kaewthongrat said this week his 6,000 hens have slumped to about 4,500 eggs a day.

Phongsathorn Karabun, an egg trader in Lampang’s Ban Fon market, said the price has risen by Bt10-Bt15 per dozen, but he hasn’t witnessed any hoarding.

The Commerce Ministry, aiming to resolve the price and supply issues, banned egg exports for seven days beginning on Thursday (March 26).

“Due to the Covid-19 situation, domestic consumption has risen by 2-3 times, causing shortages in some areas,” Minister Jurin Laksanawisit said.

“The seven-day ban is a trial period. If the situation does not improve by next week, we may consider extending it.”