The Namakkal-based National Egg Coordination Committee (NECC) has maintained egg prices at last week's level of Rs 2.52 a piece and rates for its layer birds at Rs 40 a kg for the past two weeks.

According to The Hindu Business Line, lower domestic offtake, slack export demand and a dip in consumption in Karnataka and Maharashtra, major markets for Tamil Nadu's shell egg and broiler trade, have led to this slowdown. "Prices are more likely to rule at this level till Navaratri is over," said a source.

Dr P. Selvaraj, Zonal Chairman, NECC, said: "Layer rates remain unchanged as our main consumers — Karnataka, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh — observe Dasara, the period of abstinence. We expect a rise in offtake and prices to perk up during next month."

He added that the industry usually experiences a temporary lull during August-October due to the period of austerity.

Meanwhile, the Palladam-based Broiler Coordination Committee has hiked live-chicken prices to Rs 63 a kg from last week's Rs 52 a kg.