Americans smuggling eggs from Mexico face CBP fines

As egg prices in the United States remain high, more travelers are attempting to bring eggs across the border from Mexico — despite strict regulations prohibiting their import. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials have reported a sharp increase in egg seizures, issuing warnings and fines to travelers caught smuggling them into the country.

Texas CBP officers have intercepted more than 90 individuals attempting to bring raw eggs into the U.S. since January. Meanwhile, the San Diego Field Office has seen a 158 percent increase in egg-related seizures since fiscal year 2024. Between October 2024 and February 2025, the number of eggs confiscated at U.S. ports of entry was 29 percent higher than during the same period the previous year. Laredo, reported an increase of 54 percent in egg product inceptions over last year.

Officials says that the crackdown is focused on protecting public health. Bird flu remains a major concern in Mexico, and illegally imported raw eggs can carry Newcastle disease, a serious poultry threat that also poses risks to humans.

“It is critical that we keep our traveling public informed to safeguard our agricultural industry while continuing to facilitate legitimate trade and travel,” said Sidney Aki, CBP Director of Field Operations in San Diego.

CBP says that the price disparity between U.S. and Mexican eggs is fueling the smuggling attempts. In Mexico, a dozen eggs can cost as little as $2 — less than half of what consumers pay in many parts of the U.S. Some travelers have attempted to cross the border with undeclared eggs, hoping to take advantage of the savings.

»Related: Explainer: Here’s how bird flu has sent U.S. eggs prices skyrocketing

CBP officials have been cracking down on these efforts, reminding travelers that bringing raw eggs, fresh poultry, and live birds into the U.S. is prohibited due to the risk of spreading diseases such as highly pathogenic avian influenza and virulent Newcastle disease. Travelers caught with undeclared eggs face fines of up to $10,000.

CBP’s Laredo Field Office posted to their X account reminding travelers that bringing raw eggs, raw chicken, or live birds into the U.S. is prohibited and must be declared to avoid fines.

The Laredo Field Office along with CBP would like to remind the public that it is prohibited to import raw/fresh eggs, raw chicken, or live birds. Please declare all agricultural products upon your entry into the United States to avoid fines. #ofoproud🇺🇸 @CBP pic.twitter.com/8czlONw1li

— Director of Field Operations, Donald R. Kusser (@DFOLaredo) February 24, 2025

“Travelers are prohibited from bringing fresh eggs, raw chicken, or live birds into the United States from Mexico,” said Donald Kusser, CBP’s Laredo Field Office Director. “Failure to declare may lead to potential fines.”

CBP officers in Texas recently issued 16 civil penalties totaling nearly $4,000 for the attempted smuggling of prohibited agricultural products, including raw eggs. The agency continues to stress that even small amounts of undeclared food items can pose serious risks to U.S. agriculture.

To avoid fines and penalties, CBP urges travelers to declare all food and agricultural products at ports of entry. Officials also remind travelers that certain food items may be allowed if they are properly declared and intended for personal use only.

»Related: Ag Secretary Rollins lays out strategies for avian flu, egg prices