The large third quarter increase is partly because of the quarterly decline last year. Prices are expected to be below costs for the first two quarters of this year. However, a large portion of profitability still depends on the holiday trade. Turkey production grew rapidly in South Carolina this past year. The industry continues to concentrate in and around North Carolina.
Turkey exports continue to increase and follow many of the same patterns as broilers.
Russia continues to be the big customer and is well over 70 percent of all exports. Egg production for 1995 was below the previous year while prices averaged over 5 cents per dozen higher. This resulted in a year of stronger positive returns. First quarter 1996 production will likely remain close to the same period last year and keep returns positive. However, because of the recent positive returns, production will probably increase 2-3 percent through the rest of 1996.